In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding a quick and delicious dinner solution is always a win. Our Quick Cabbage and Chicken Meatballs recipe is here to save the day, providing a delightful combination of savory chicken meatballs, crisp cabbage, and a burst of flavors from Creole seasoning and marinara sauce. This fuss-free dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the simplicity and deliciousness of this quick and hearty recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 (23-ounce) package prepared chicken meatballs, such as Aidells® Teriyaki & Pineapple Chicken Meatballs
- 1 yellow onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 head cabbage, cut into small pieces
- 3 tablespoons marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon Creole seasoning, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Chicken Meatballs
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Onions and Cabbage
- Add the bite-sized onion pieces to the skillet with the meatballs. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Incorporate the small pieces of cabbage into the skillet and cook until they are slightly tender but still retain some crispness.
Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, onions, and cabbage, ensuring even distribution.
- Stir gently to coat the ingredients with the savory marinara goodness.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
- Sprinkle Creole seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the mixture.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Finish with Butter
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and contribute to the overall richness of the dish.
- Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the Quick Cabbage and Chicken Meatballs onto plates or into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Grainy Goodness: Serve the meatballs and cabbage over cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spice blends or hot sauces to customize the heat level.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Choose chicken meatballs without added sugars or fillers to keep the carb count low.
- Increase the cabbage portion while reducing or omitting onions to lower the carb content.
- Use a keto-friendly marinara sauce or make your own with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs.
Low-Carb Version
- Opt for turkey or pork meatballs for a lower-carb alternative.
- Replace cabbage with shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix for a convenient low-carb swap.
- Adjust the Creole seasoning and marinara sauce quantities to control the carb intake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use homemade chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! If you prefer making your own chicken meatballs, go ahead and use them in this recipe. Ensure they are fully cooked before proceeding with the sautéing steps.
Q2: What other seasoning can I use besides Creole seasoning?
Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the meatballs and chop the veggies in advance. When ready to eat, follow the cooking instructions, and you’ll have a quick and tasty meal in no time.
Q4: Is this dish spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on your preference. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and Creole seasoning to control the heat.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
While the texture of cabbage may change upon freezing, you can freeze any leftover meatballs and sauce. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.
Our Quick Cabbage and Chicken Meatballs recipe is a testament to the fact that a delicious dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a satisfying meal that bursts with flavors and textures. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a quick and tasty dish, this recipe has you covered. Embrace the convenience and deliciousness of this recipe, and let it become a go-to solution for your busy weeknight dinners. Get ready to savor the goodness in every bite!
