Description
A healthy and flavorful casserole combining tender chicken meatballs, fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and zucchini noodles. Perfect for a low-carb, protein-rich dinner that is both satisfying and visually appealing.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach
3 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 ounces Dodoni feta cheese, crumbled, plus extra for topping
1 pound lean ground chicken
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Crystal Worcestershire sauce
1/3 to 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons fresh oregano, plus extra for sprinkling
2 medium zucchini squash, spiralized
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Pinch red pepper flakes
1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the spinach and garlic and pulse until finely chopped. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon olive oil and add half of the feta, pulsing a few times.
3. In a bowl, mix together the chicken, egg, Worcestershire sauce, spinach mixture, salt, pepper, oregano, and 1/3 cup breadcrumbs. Adjust with more breadcrumbs if needed. Fold in remaining feta cheese.
4. Form into 30 mini meatballs, about 1/2 inch in diameter, and place on the parchment. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through.
5. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook 1 minute, then stir in lemon juice.
6. Add zoodles to the skillet, tossing to coat. Cook 5 to 6 minutes until slightly softened.
7. To serve, place meatballs on a bed of zoodles and top with extra feta and fresh oregano.
Notes
Ensure the spinach is not too wet to prevent soggy meatballs.
Do not overmix the chicken mixture to keep meatballs tender.
Serve immediately for best texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian