Chicken Meatballs Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken meatballs with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. This low carb version substitutes traditional pasta with flavorful chicken meatballs, making it perfect for those following a low carb or keto lifestyle. The creamy Alfredo sauce adds a luxurious touch, making this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Meatballs
- Mixing the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Forming the Meatballs:
- Scoop the chicken mixture and roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Chicken Meatballs
- Searing the Meatballs:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Sear the meatballs until they are golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add butter and allow it to melt.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the butter.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine and Serve
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken meatballs to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Gently stir the meatballs to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer over low heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve the Low Carb Chicken Meatballs Alfredo hot, either as a main dish or over low carb pasta alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Cook’s Notes
- Almond Flour Substitute: If you prefer, you can use other low carb binders like coconut flour or ground flaxseed meal instead of almond flour.
- Meatball Consistency: For a finer texture, process the ground chicken in a food processor before mixing with other ingredients.
- Creamy Sauce: To achieve a thicker sauce, simmer the Alfredo sauce a bit longer or add a touch more Parmesan cheese.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with plant-based ground meat alternatives.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for a kick of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the Alfredo sauce for added freshness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially the sauces and seasonings, are gluten-free certified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Chicken Meatballs Alfredo?
- Yes, you can freeze both the cooked meatballs and the sauce separately for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean and flavorful alternative that works well in this recipe.
3. How can I make this dish more keto-friendly?
- Ensure all ingredients are low in carbs, especially the dairy products. Use full-fat options and avoid added sugars.
4. What should I serve with Chicken Meatballs Alfredo?
- This dish pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple cauliflower mash.
Low Carb Chicken Meatballs Alfredo is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with tender, flavorful chicken meatballs. Whether you’re following a low carb diet or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the creamy goodness and savory flavors in every bite!
Now, you’re ready to impress with this flavorful and comforting Low Carb Chicken Meatballs Alfredo recipe. Enjoy creating this dish and savoring the creamy goodness with family and friends