PALEO SUNDRIED TOMATO CHICKEN MEATBALLS
Updated: Oct 5
Introduction to Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your dinner game with these delicious Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs! They're juicy, flavorful, and packed with the rich taste of sundried tomatoes, these meatballs are a perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flair.
Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, served with a tangy marinara sauce, or nestled atop a bed of zucchini noodles, they’re sure to impress your family and friends.
These meatballs are not only easy to make but also a great way to sneak in some extra flavor and nutrition. The sundried tomatoes add a delightful burst of umami, while fresh herbs and spices enhance every bite. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a comforting yet healthy dish.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is a lean protein that serves as the base for these meatballs, providing a tender and juicy texture. It’s a versatile meat that absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for infusing with the delicious ingredients in this recipe.
Almond Flour: Almond flour acts as a gluten-free binder, giving the meatballs structure while adding a nutty flavor. It’s also rich in healthy fats and protein, making these meatballs not only tasty but also nutritious.
Flax Egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) serves as a plant-based binding agent, helping to hold the meatballs together. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and provides omega-3 fatty acids, enhancing the nutritional profile of the dish.
Diced Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs, enhancing their overall flavor. When cooked, onions caramelize beautifully, providing a savory base that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic: Garlic brings a robust aroma and rich flavor to the meatballs, elevating the dish with its savory notes. Known for its numerous health benefits, garlic also adds a touch of warmth and complexity to each bite.
Sundried Tomatoes: Sundried tomatoes contribute a concentrated burst of umami flavor, along with a delightful chewy texture. They add a Mediterranean flair to the meatballs and are packed with antioxidants, making them a flavorful and nutritious addition.
Chicken Bone Broth: Chicken bone broth adds moisture and richness to the meatballs, helping to keep them tender while infusing them with savory flavor. It’s also packed with nutrients, including collagen and amino acids, promoting overall health.
Zucchini: The spiralized zucchini is used as a low carb substitute to enjoy with these chicken meatballs.
Ingredient Substitutions for the Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs
Ground Chicken: Substitute with ground turkey or ground beef for a different flavor and texture, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Almond Flour: Use coconut flour (reduce the amount to about 1/4 cup) or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a similar binding effect, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Flax Egg: Replace with a chia egg (1 tablespoon ground chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or use 1/4 cup of applesauce for a moist alternative if you’re not concerned about being egg-free.
Diced Onion: Substitute with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor, or use onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) if you prefer not to use fresh onions.
Garlic: Replace with garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon) or garlic-infused oil for a milder garlic flavor without the chunks.
Sundried Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes (diced) for a lighter version, or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Dried Oregano: Substitute with dried basil or Italian seasoning for a different herbal flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper: Use cayenne pepper for more heat or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder taste.
Salt: Replace with Himalayan pink salt or sea salt based on your preference. Adjust the quantity as needed, especially if using a different salt type.
Chicken Bone Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken stock if you prefer a richer flavor.
Zucchini: Use grated carrots or finely chopped spinach for added nutrition and moisture, or omit it altogether for a more traditional meatball texture.
How to Make the Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs
Spiralize Zucchini: First spiralize your zucchini into ribbons
2. Remove moisture from Zucchini: Place between paper towels and set aside.
3.Form the Chicken Meatballs: In a medium bowl, mix together all of the above ingredients, excluding the bone broth. Gently mix together all of the ingredients until combined and roll into small balls.
4. Cook the Chicken Meatballs: Heat a skillet on medium heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the skillet. Add the meatballs to the skillet, let sit for about 3 minutes before flipping and allowing to cook for another 3 minutes.
5. Add Chicken Bone Broth: Once 90% cooked through, add the chicken bone broth to the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5 more minutes until the liquid is no longer present.
6. Add Zucchini Noodles: To the pan, add in the zucchini noodles, and cook for 1-2 minutes so they become just al dente.
7. Plate and Enjoy: Plate and top with fresh parsley!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried tomatoes?Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for sundried tomatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be milder. You may want to reduce the moisture in the recipe by cooking the fresh tomatoes briefly to concentrate their flavor.
How do I store leftover meatballs?Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.
What can I serve with these meatballs?These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides, including zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or a fresh salad. They also work great as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?Yes, these Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs are gluten-free, as they use almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. Always check labels for any pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the safety and quality of homemade chicken meatballs. Here are some guidelines:
Refrigeration:
If you plan to consume the chicken meatballs within a few days, store them in the refrigerator. Place the meatballs in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. These are my favorite airtight containers for storage.
Freezing:
If you don't plan to consume the chicken meatballs within a few days, consider freezing them for longer storage.
Use freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn. These are my favorite freezer friendly reusable bags.
For optimal quality, consume frozen chicken meatballs within 1-3 months.
Reheating:
When ready to use frozen chicken meatballs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.. Alternatively, you can thaw them in a sealed plastic bag under cold running water.
Reheat chicken meatballs thoroughly before consuming to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use the microwave, oven, stovetop, or any other preferred method.
Full Recipe
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Can I use ground beef in this recipe instead of ground chicken?
How can I keep these chicken meatballs low histamine? Ground meat is typically high in histamine...
Loved making these with zucchini noodles!! Thank you!
Yum!