Welcome to this mouthwatering recipe for mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs! If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer, you’ve come to the right place. In just three simple steps, you’ll be able to create these stunning and delicious meatballs that are sure to impress your guests.
With a cheesy surprise inside, these chicken meatballs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cocktail party, celebration, or gathering. They can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them a quick and convenient option for any event.
To make these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs, you’ll need boneless skinless chicken breast, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, basil pesto, and mini fresh mozzarella cheese balls. Simply combine the ingredients in a food processor, form the meatballs, and stuff them with the mozzarella. Then, bake them in the oven until they are fully cooked and bursting with flavor.
Once they’re ready, these delectable meatballs can be served as appetizers at cocktail parties or celebrations. Alternatively, you can enjoy them as an easy dinner option by pairing them with pasta for a satisfying meal.
In terms of nutrition, each serving of these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs contains approximately 47 calories, 1g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 2g of fat. They are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, allowing you to indulge without any guilt.
If you prefer, you can also make a variation of these meatballs using ground turkey instead of chicken. The preparation and cooking steps remain the same, providing you with a versatile recipe that caters to your preferences.
Before you get started, here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly. Lightly wetting your hands before forming the meatballs will prevent the meat from sticking, making the process easier. For an extra burst of flavor, you can coat the cooked meatballs with extra pesto and sprinkle some Parmigiano Reggiano on top.
In conclusion, these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs are a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and herby zest in each bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible appetizer. Enjoy!
Easy and Flavorful Appetizer
Looking for a delicious and hassle-free appetizer? These chicken meatballs with mozzarella and pesto are the perfect choice! With a cheesy surprise inside, they are sure to be a hit at any cocktail party, celebration, or gathering.
Not only are these stuffed chicken meatballs bursting with flavor, but they are also incredibly easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a plateful of these mouthwatering appetizers ready to be devoured.
Prepare them ahead of time to save yourself from last-minute stress. Simply pop them in the oven when your guests arrive, and they’ll be treated to a delightful blend of juicy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and aromatic pesto.
These mozzarella stuffed chicken meatballs make for a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests. Plus, their combination of flavors is a match made in heaven. The creamy mozzarella perfectly complements the savory chicken, while the pesto adds a burst of fresh herbiness to every bite.
Are you getting hungry just thinking about it? Keep reading for the easy-to-follow recipe and step-by-step instructions on how to make these irresistible mozzarella chicken meatballs.
Experience the savory goodness of these pesto stuffed chicken meatballs. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next get-together!
Ingredients and Preparation
To make these delicious mozzarella and pesto meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
- Boneless skinless chicken breast
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Basil pesto
- Mini fresh mozzarella cheese balls
Now let’s take a look at how to prepare these scrumptious meatballs:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the boneless skinless chicken breast, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined and a cohesive mixture forms.
- Take about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a mini mozzarella ball in the center and wrap the chicken mixture around it, forming a meatball.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken mixture and mozzarella balls, placing the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
And there you have it! Your delicious mozzarella and pesto meatballs are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them as an appetizer or pair them with pasta for a flavorful main dish. These meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
These mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, celebrating a special occasion, or looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, these chicken meatballs with mozzarella are sure to be a hit.
As an appetizer, serve these chicken meatballs on toothpicks or small skewers for easy picking. They make a delightful addition to any cocktail party or social gathering, offering a burst of cheesy goodness with every bite.
For a more substantial meal, these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs can be enjoyed as the main course. Serve them over a bed of pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, and top with your favorite marinara sauce for a comforting and flavorful dinner option.
Whether you choose to serve them as appetizers or as a main course, be sure to garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of freshness and complexity.
These chicken meatballs with mozzarella are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The melty mozzarella filling adds a burst of creamy goodness to each bite, while the pesto brings a flavorful and aromatic kick to the dish.
So, whether you’re hosting a party or want to enjoy a satisfying dinner, these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs are the perfect choice. They are versatile, easy to make, and sure to impress your guests or family. Try them today!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying these delectable mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs, you can indulge without guilt. Each serving of these appetizing meatballs contains approximately 47 calories, 1g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 2g of fat. These meatballs offer a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs while still packing plenty of flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 47 |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 2g |
These nutritional values make these mozzarella and pesto meatballs a guilt-free choice for health-conscious individuals. The low calorie count, combined with the generous protein content, makes them a satisfying option that can be enjoyed without worries. So go ahead and savor the delicious combination of mozzarella cheese, pesto, and chicken in each bite!
Variation with Ground Turkey
If you prefer, you can also make a variation of these mozzarella and pesto stuffed meatballs using ground turkey instead of chicken. The preparation and cooking steps remain the same.
Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to chicken, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter alternative. By replacing the chicken with ground turkey, you can create a flavorful and wholesome dish that is packed with protein and low in fat.
To make the turkey version of these meatballs, simply substitute the boneless skinless chicken breast with ground turkey. The rest of the ingredients and steps remain unchanged. The combination of mozzarella, pesto, and ground turkey creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
When it comes to cooking the turkey meatballs, make sure to follow the same instructions as for the chicken version. Bake them in the oven until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
Whether you choose to make these meatballs with chicken or ground turkey, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a delightful dinner option.
Comparison: Chicken Meatballs vs. Turkey Meatballs
| Comparison | Chicken Meatballs | Turkey Meatballs |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Content | High | High |
| Fat Content | Low | Low |
| Calories per Serving | 47 | 45 |
| Taste | Tender and juicy | Lean and flavorful |
Tips and Tricks
When making chicken meatballs with pesto, here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure a successful and flavorful outcome:
- Lightly wet your hands: Before forming the meatballs, lightly wet your hands with water. This will prevent the meat mixture from sticking to your hands, making it easier to shape the meatballs.
- Coat with extra pesto: After baking the meatballs, you can enhance their flavor by coating them with some extra pesto. Simply drizzle a spoonful of pesto over the cooked meatballs to add an extra kick of herby goodness.
- Sprinkle with Parmigiano Reggiano: To further elevate the taste of your chicken meatballs, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano on top. The salty and nutty flavors of this cheese will complement the pesto and add a delicious finishing touch.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly formed, flavorful chicken meatballs with pesto every time.
This image shows a mouth-watering plate of chicken meatballs with pesto, showcasing the delicious result of following these tips and tricks.
Conclusion
These mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. With their burst of cheese and delightful blend of flavors, they are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or simply looking for a flavorful dinner option, these chicken meatballs with mozzarella and pesto are a guaranteed hit.
Preparing these meatballs is a breeze, thanks to the straightforward recipe. After combining boneless, skinless chicken breast, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and basil pesto in a food processor, you’ll form the mixture into meatballs and stuff them with mini fresh mozzarella cheese balls. Then, just bake the meatballs in the oven until perfectly cooked and lightly golden.
Serve these mozzarella and pesto meatballs as appetizers at your next gathering or as a mouthwatering dinner over pasta. The flavors of the melted mozzarella and the zesty pesto will elevate any dish. These meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, with only 47 calories per serving.
So, why wait? Give this mozzarella and pesto meatballs recipe a try and savor the cheesy goodness and herby zest in each bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ
Are these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs difficult to make?
Not at all! These meatballs are super easy to make in just 3 simple steps. They can be prepared in minutes and require basic ingredients and equipment.
What occasions are these chicken meatballs with mozzarella and pesto perfect for?
These meatballs are perfect for cocktail parties, celebrations, or gatherings. They make a stunning and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests.
Can I prepare these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.
What ingredients do I need to make these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs?
To make these meatballs, you will need boneless skinless chicken breast, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, basil pesto, and mini fresh mozzarella cheese balls.
How do I form the meatballs?
The meatballs are formed by combining the ingredients in a food processor. Once the mixture is ready, you can stuff each meatball with a mini mozzarella cheese ball before baking them in the oven.
How can I serve these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs?
These meatballs can be served as appetizers at cocktail parties or celebrations. They can also be enjoyed as an easy dinner option by serving them over pasta.
Are these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs?
Yes, they are! Each serving of these meatballs contains approximately 47 calories, 1g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 2g of fat. They are a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make a variation of these meatballs using ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can make a variation of these meatballs using ground turkey instead of chicken. The preparation and cooking steps remain the same.
Do you have any tips or tricks for making these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs?
It is helpful to lightly wet your hands before forming the meatballs to prevent the meat from sticking. Additionally, you can coat the cooked meatballs with extra pesto and sprinkle some Parmigiano Reggiano for added flavor.
Are these mozzarella and pesto stuffed chicken meatballs a crowd-pleasing appetizer?
Yes, they certainly are! These meatballs are delicious and sure to please a crowd. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and have a cheesy surprise inside.
