Baked Chicken Meatballs Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Baked Chicken Meatballs Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a quick weeknight meal. As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, I can assure you that this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The history of meatballs dates back centuries, with roots in various cultures, but the combination of baked chicken meatballs and pasta has become a beloved staple in many households, including mine.

People adore baked chicken meatballs pasta for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The tender, juicy meatballs are infused with herbs and spices, while the pasta serves as a hearty base, soaking up the rich sauce. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about convenience. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, it’s ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Pasta:
• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Preparing the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Once the mixture is well combined, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Once all the meatballs are formed, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden brown color. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should be no longer pink in the center.

Cooking the Pasta and Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you choose.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add the dried basil, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Combining the Pasta and Meatballs

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and meatballs. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
3. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce and flavors.

Serving the Dish

1. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Serve the baked chicken meatballs pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
3. Enjoy

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Chicken Meatballs Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich and savory sauce, creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly comforting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies if you choose to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix! For serving suggestions, I love to top my Baked Chicken Meatballs Pasta with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley for that extra pop of flavor. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options, or even using zoodles for a lighter twist! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different ingredients, I’d love to hear about your experience. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you come up with! This Baked Chicken Meatballs Pasta is sure to become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do. Happy cooking!

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