Name: Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 medium or 1 small yellow onion, grated; 4 cloves garlic, divided; 1/2 medium bunch fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup unseasoned fine dried or panko breadcrumbs; 1 cup whole or 2% milk, divided; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning; 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Cooked egg noodles, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread (for serving)

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Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs

Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground chicken with the zesty brightness of lemon pepper seasoning, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. From the tender meatballs that are packed with flavor to the rich sauce that ties it all together, this dish will surely impress your loved ones. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs a must-try? For starters, it’s all about easy prep. You won’t need complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients for this dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With simple steps and savory flavors, this recipe is family-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table will find joy in a comforting, wholesome meal.

This recipe also represents a quick solution to your mealtime dilemmas, as it takes just around 30 minutes from start to finish. Using minimal yet impactful ingredients, it beautifully balances taste, texture, and simplicity. You’ll appreciate the minimal clean-up, making it as convenient as it is delicious!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs

Gather these ingredients to experience the full flavor potential of this dish:

1/2 medium or 1 small yellow onion, grated for sweetness
4 cloves garlic, divided for depth of flavor
1/2 medium bunch fresh parsley, offering a fresh touch
1/2 cup unseasoned fine dried or panko breadcrumbs, adding texture
1 cup whole or 2% milk, divided for creaminess
1 large egg, binding the ingredients together
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, for balance
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning with salt, infusing zesty flavor
1 1/2 pounds ground chicken, the star protein of the dish
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, adding richness
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, thicken the sauce
1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, for depth and moisture
Cooked egg noodles, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F, preparing it for the baking stage. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Take the yellow onion and grate it directly into a large mixing bowl. This method will help release the sweet juices from the onion.
Next, finely grate 2 cloves of garlic into the bowl, blending the flavors beautifully.
Finely chop the remaining parsley, reserving about 1 tablespoon for garnish, and add it all to the mixture.
Include the breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, the egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, and a sprinkling of salt. Stir well until the breadcrumbs are moistened and the mixture holds together.
Add the ground chicken to the mixture and gently combine all the ingredients. Form the mixture into meatballs, each about 2 tablespoons in size, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about 12-15 minutes.
While the meatballs are baking, move to the sauce. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to develop a base.
Pour in the remaining milk, the rest of the lemon pepper seasoning, and the chicken broth. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring until it thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them into the sauce, coating them evenly. You can either bake them for an additional 10 minutes or broil them for 2-3 minutes to achieve a lovely golden color.
Garnish the meatballs with the reserved parsley and serve them with your choice of side, like egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or a warm crusty bread.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras:

Opt for making the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them uncooked. When ready to serve, just follow the baking instructions without thawing.
Experiment with different breadcrumbs; Italian-seasoned ones can add an extra depth of flavor.
For a lighter sauce, you can swap out the heavy creams for low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter.
Introduce flavor variations by adding chopped spinach, grated carrot, or bell peppers to the meatball mix for increased nutrition.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to enjoying your Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs, the options are deliciously diverse! Serve them over a nest of cooked egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce, or nestle them atop a fluffy mound of mashed potatoes for a hearty feel. Alternatively, add a refreshing salad on the side to balance the rich flavors. Crusty bread is also a fantastic option that allows for dipping into that flavor-packed sauce!

Nutritional Information

If you’re watching your caloric intake, fret not. Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs can be a satisfying meal without the guilt. With a balance of protein from the ground chicken, carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs, and healthy fats from the butter, this dish offers a delightful nutritional profile. While calories may vary based on serving sizes and sides, it typically ranges around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the pairing.

Storing Tips & Variations for Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs

Make-ahead meals are a lifesaver, and these meatballs are perfect for that! Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container, where they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs for up to three months. Reheat them gently in the sauce or in a microwave to enjoy them at a later date. For healthier swaps, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken or use whole grain breadcrumbs. Creative variations might include the incorporation of different herbs like oregano or dill for a flavor twist.

Conclusion for Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs

The journey of creating Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs is one filled with aromatic flavors and heartwarming comfort. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together at the table. If you haven’t tried making this dish yet, now is the perfect time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful culinary adventure!

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground chicken?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before using it in the recipe.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to easily adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivity.
Can I cook the meatballs in a sauce instead of baking them?
Yes, you can pan-fry them and then simmer in the sauce for extra flavor.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs go well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

With these explanations and tips, you now have everything you need to create the delightful Creamy Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs! Enjoy cooking.