Are you ready to treat your taste buds to something flavorful? I can’t wait to share my recipe for Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs! This dish is not only super tasty, but it’s also light and easy to make, perfect for any night of the week. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Cook Time: 20

prep Time: 15

Yields: 4

Calories: 382

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs

Creating mouthwatering Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs is all about using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy yet satisfying dish:

1 pound ground chicken: This is the star of the show! Ground chicken keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and a hint of nuttiness. You can use freshly grated for the best flavor.
1 large egg, beaten: This acts as a binder to help keep the meatballs together.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives this dish its savory kick. Use fresh cloves for optimal flavor!
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshness brings the dish to life. It’s a great way to add color too!
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: for a little heat. If you prefer mild flavors, feel free to reduce the amount.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: These are must-haves for seasoning.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Great for cooking the meatballs and adds healthy fats.
4 tablespoons salted butter: For that rich, buttery flavor—melt it to mix with the garlic.
1 pound zucchini noodles: The perfect low-carb choice to pasta that absorbs the garlic butter beautifully.
½ lemon, juiced: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese,for garnish: Extra cheese never hurt anybody!

Having these ingredients ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, once you gather everything, you’ll be excited to get started!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Zoodles

Now that we have our ingredients set, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for crafting these delicious Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs.Follow along closely for the best results!

Mix the Meatball Mixture: in a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ½ cup grated Parmesan, beaten egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined. Form the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet and cook until they’re golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.You’ll want to make sure they are cooked through, with no pink remaining in the center. Once done, transfer them to a plate and wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.

Prepare the garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add the remaining 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Toss in the Zoodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter, letting them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still have a bit of crunch.

Combine and Serve: Return the meatballs to the skillet, and squeeze in the juice of ½ lemon. Gently warm everything together just until heated through. For that finishing touch, sprinkle with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese.

And there you have it! Serve your delicious garlic butter zoodles with chicken meatballs warm,and enjoy every flavorful bite. This dish is a fantastic meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner at home.

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs

After you’ve whipped up your Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs, it’s time to think about serving and how to keep those delicious leftovers! Here’s what I suggest:

Serving Suggestions:

Plate it Up: Serve the zoodles and meatballs warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty whole-grain bread. A side of roasted veggies can also enhance the meal, making it feel hearty yet healthy.
Dipping Sauce: If you want to elevate your dish even further, I recommend a drizzle of homemade garlic aioli or a simple lemon-tahini sauce for an extra zing.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can also freeze the meatballs separately from the zoodles. The meatballs freeze well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Texture Tip: Keep in mind that zucchini noodles can become watery when stored. If you’re making this dish ahead of time, you might want to slightly undercook the zoodles so they maintain their texture when reheated.

Reheating Guidelines:

When it’s time to dig in again,reheat the meatballs and zoodles gently in a skillet over medium heat. You might add a splash of olive oil or a teaspoon of water to help prevent sticking. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal that tastes almost as good as when it was freshly made!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs

Cooking can sometimes throw challenges our way, but don’t worry! Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips for making the best Garlic Butter Zoodles with Chicken Meatballs:

Recipe Notes:

Chicken Alternatives: if you prefer, you can easily substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey or even lean beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times if necessary.
Zoodle Options: You can buy pre-spiralized zucchini or make your own using a spiralizer. Other veggies like yellow squash or carrots can also be used for a different flavor profile.
Garlic Preference: Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste. If you’re a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two!

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Meatballs Falling Apart: If your meatballs are crumbling while cooking, it might be due to the mixture being too dry. Try adding a bit more egg or Parmesan cheese to help bind them.
Zoodles Too Watery: If your zoodles turn out mushy, it might very well be as they were cooked for too long. Aim for a quick toss in the garlic butter, just until warmed through, to retain their crunch.
Flavors Not Shining: If you find the dish lacks flavor, a pinch of extra salt, herbs, or a bit more red pepper flakes can really enhance the taste. Always adjust seasoning to your personal preference!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create and enjoy a fantastic dish that’s both delightful and satisfying. Happy cooking!