Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb. ground chicken
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

For the Cheesy Spinach Pappardelle:

8 oz. pappardelle
1 Tbsp olive oil
4 cups spinach, loosely packed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup butter
3 Tbsp flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup shaved parmesan

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spray a sheet pan or casserole dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix together with clean hands.

Step 3: Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared sheet pan.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the oven for 25 minutes, until cooked through.

Step 5: While the meatballs bake, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions, then drain.

Step 6: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove spinach and garlic from heat and set aside in a bowl.

Step 8: In the same skillet, melt butter. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to combine into a smooth mixture.

Step 9: Slowly pour in milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to create a creamy white sauce (roux).

Step 10: Stir in shaved parmesan until melted and smooth, then remove from heat.

Step 11: Add the spinach and garlic mixture along with the cooked pappardelle to the sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 12: Divide the cheesy spinach pasta into four bowls. Place the chicken meatballs on top of each serving.

Step 13: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh cracked pepper and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the meatball mixture.

Substitute half the ground chicken with ground turkey for a slightly different texture.

Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the roux and milk mixture a few minutes longer before adding cheese.

FAQs

Can I freeze the chicken meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken meatballs for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.