Imagine a dish that combines the juicy, perfectly seasoned comfort of homemade chicken meatballs, the warm embrace of fluffy rice, and the rich, tangy notes of marinara sauce - all in one irresistible bowl. These Chicken Meatball Rice Bowls are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt and pepper, 2 cups of cooked rice, and 1 cup of marinara sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
- Once the mixture is well combined, form it into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
- In a separate pot or microwave, heat the cooked rice until warm. You can add a little salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- To assemble the rice bowls, start with a base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with 4-5 meatballs, then generously spoon marinara sauce over the top.
- If desired, you can garnish the bowls with additional grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the chicken meatball rice bowls warm, and enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
Tips
- Moisture is Key: When mixing meatball ingredients, don't overwork the meat. Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken meatballs reach 165°F for food safety and optimal flavor.
- Batch Cooking: Cook meatballs in batches to maintain proper skillet temperature and achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley as a garnish to elevate the dish's freshness and presentation.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for quick weeknight meals.
- Sauce Variations: While marinara is classic, don't be afraid to experiment with other sauces like teriyaki or creamy alfredo for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
