High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

HUSTLE MUSCLE STATS:

• 🍗 Protein Content: 32g (High Protein)
• 🔥 Calories: 726 kcal
• ⚡ Muscle Recovery: Optimal
• 🛠️ Difficulty: Straightforward

The Fuel (Instructions):

1. Gather Ingredients: Collect all necessary ingredients.
2. Prep Fresh Add-ins: Finely mince 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, and ½ tablespoon of fresh parsley.
3. Toast Breadcrumbs: In a sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir in ½ cup breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown. Remove from heat.
4. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine toasted breadcrumbs, 1 lb. ground chicken, 1 large egg, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, minced sun-dried tomatoes, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gently mix using a fork or clean hands until everything is evenly combined.
6. Prepare Pan: Wipe the sauté pan clean and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil; heat over medium.
7. Scoop Meatballs: Use a 4-oz ice cream scoop to portion meat mixture into the hot oil. Sear until browned on at least two sides.
8. Remove Meatballs: Transfer browned meatballs to a plate and repeat with the remaining mixture.
9. Make Sauce: In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and ⅛ teaspoon chili flakes. Cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
10. Add Broth: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
11. Incorporate Cream: Lower heat to medium-low and stir in 1 cup of room-temperature heavy cream.
12. Finish Sauce: Add in one 14.5 oz can of strained diced tomatoes, ⅓ cup frozen spinach, ½ cup grated Parmesan, and minced herbs. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
13. Return Meatballs: Place browned chicken meatballs back into the pan, spooning sauce over them as they cook.
14. Cook to Temperature: The meatballs are ready when they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F. This should take about 15-20 minutes in the sauce.

Why High Protein Matters

High protein intake is essential for muscle repair and consistent gains, ensuring your body has what it needs to recover and grow stronger after intense workouts. Enjoy these protein-packed meatballs to fuel your body like the athlete you are!