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Keto Chicken Parmesan Meatballs - Comfort Food With A Low-Carb Twist

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken (preferably a mix of white and dark meat)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup super-fine almond flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup minced onion or 2 tablespoons grated onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (optional for stuffed centers)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing, if pan-cooking)
  • 2 cups no-sugar-added marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil or extra parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep a baking sheet: Line a rimmed sheet with parchment and lightly oil it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If pan-searing, heat a large skillet over medium with olive oil instead.
  2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, almond flour, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Stir gently with a fork or your hands until just combined.
  3. Form the meatballs: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per meatball. If stuffing, flatten slightly, tuck a mozzarella cube inside, and seal well. Roll into smooth balls.
  4. Choose your cook method: Oven: Arrange on the prepared sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden and almost cooked through.
  5. Skillet: Sear in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.
  6. Simmer in sauce: Warm marinara in a large oven-safe skillet or pot. Nestle the meatballs into the sauce and simmer 5–8 minutes, until they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
  7. Finish with cheese: Sprinkle extra Parmesan and a little shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover for 2 minutes to melt, or broil briefly until bubbly.
  8. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, roasted broccoli, or a crisp green salad.