Juicy and Spicy Chicken Meatballs Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, parsley, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, cumin, and oregano.
   • Mix all ingredients until well combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
   • Form the mixture into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Cook the meatballs for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
   • Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
   • Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
   • Let the sauce cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
   • Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce.
   • Gently stir to coat the meatballs with the sauce.
   • Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the juicy and spicy chicken meatballs hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
   • These meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips for Juicy Meatballs

• Don’t Over-mix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and finely chopped onions and garlic add great flavor.
• Rest the Mixture: Let the meatball mixture rest for a few minutes before forming balls to help the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.

Enjoy these delicious, juicy, and spicy chicken meatballs that are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!