Looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner? This chicken meatball pasta recipe is the perfect solution. With tender, juicy chicken meatballs and pasta smothered in a rich sauce, it's a comforting meal your whole family will love. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t have much time to cook. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Get the kids involved in making this family-friendly chicken meatball pasta recipe – it’s a tasty mid-week meal. We suggest making a double batch and freezing it for another meal.
SERVES 4
PREP + COOK TIME 50 MINUTES
You will need:
2/3 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon finely-grated lemon rind
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
350g chicken mince
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup dried breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten lightly
1/3 cup ricotta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 x 400g cans diced tomatoes
3 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
250g spaghetti
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, extra
1/3 cup flaked or grated parmesan
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How to make the chicken meatballs
1 Preheat the oven to 240°C. Grease and line a small, shallow roasting pan with baking paper.
2 Place peas in a medium heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water and stand for 1 minute; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of the water. Blend or process peas, reserved water, lemon rind and chopped mint until just combined.
3 Combine chicken, garlic, breadcrumbs and egg in a medium bowl; mix well. Stir in pea mixture and ricotta.
4 Roll level tablespoons of mixture into balls using wet hands. Place in a prepared pan and drizzle with oil. Roast meatballs for 15 minutes, turning once. Add tomatoes and vinegar; roast for a further 5 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and sauce is hot. Season sauce to taste.
5 Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water until just tender. Drain.
6 Serve pasta with meatballs and sauce. Top with extra mint and parmesan.
You can freeze the meatballs raw or cooked for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking or reheating.
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FAQs: Chicken Meatball Pasta Recipe
What ingredients are needed for the chicken meatball pasta recipe?
You will need ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan cheese, herbs like basil and oregano, pasta (such as spaghetti or penne), marinara sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or pork for the chicken in the meatballs. Each type of meat will change the flavour slightly, but all work well in this dish.
How do I make the chicken meatballs?
Mix the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs and cook them in a hot pan with olive oil until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked. Baking is a healthier alternative to frying.
What type of pasta works best with chicken meatballs?
Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work well. Choose your favourite pasta, or use whatever you have in the pantry.
Can I use store-bought sauce for the pasta?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinara or tomato sauce to save time. However, making your own sauce from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs will give it a richer flavour.
Can I make the chicken meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them and cook them later.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or add hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
Is this chicken meatball pasta recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Be sure to check the ingredients for any hidden gluten in your sauce and seasoning.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pasta. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the marinara sauce for extra flavour and nutrition.
How long do I need to cook the meatballs?
The meatballs should cook for about 10-12 minutes, depending on their size. Ensure they are cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs for a brighter flavour. If substituting, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried (e.g., 1 teaspoon of dried oregano equals about 3 teaspoons of fresh oregano).
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