Chicken Florentine Meatballs Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces fresh spinach
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a 10x15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: For the meatballs, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.

Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko bread crumbs, cornstarch, Italian seasoning, salt, and crushed red pepper. Gently stir in the cooled onion and spinach mixture.

Step 5: Shape the mixture into approximately 20 meatballs, using about 1 1/2 tablespoons per meatball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center reads 165F (74C).

Step 7: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 8: Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute, then add the white wine and chicken broth. Simmer and stir for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.

Step 9: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 10: Add the spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until just wilted. Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 11: Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Return the skillet to a simmer for about 1 minute.

Step 12: Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	737
Total Fat	51g (66% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	25g (127% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	226mg (75% Daily Value)
Sodium	1389mg (60% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	27g (10% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	3g (9% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	40g (80% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	19mg (21% Daily Value)
Calcium	368mg (28% Daily Value)
Iron	4mg (22% Daily Value)
Potassium	1317mg (28% Daily Value)

Chicken Florentine Meatballs is a savory, creamy dish that combines the richness of chicken with the freshness of spinach. These meatballs are baked and served in a luscious, garlicky white wine sauce, offering an irresistible blend of flavors. But beyond just a delicious meal, the Chicken Florentine Meatballs also have a story behind their creation, as well as unique regional aspects that make them stand out.

History of Chicken Florentine Meatballs

The term Florentine refers to a traditional Italian style of cooking that highlights spinach, a key ingredient in many Florentine dishes. The origins of the term are closely linked to Florence, Italy, where spinach became a staple in the local diet. Chicken Florentine Meatballs are a modern twist on the classic Florentine recipe. While Italys Florentine cuisine is known for its use of spinach and delicate sauces, this dish introduces the convenience of meatballs, making it a popular choice for home cooks worldwide. The idea of pairing chicken with a creamy spinach sauce likely stemmed from the widespread use of poultry in American kitchens, combining Italian tradition with local ingredients.

Regional Characteristics

Though Chicken Florentine Meatballs are not strictly Italian, they take inspiration from Italian-American cuisine, which is famous for reinterpreting classic Italian flavors to suit local tastes and ingredients. In Italy, Florentine dishes typically use beef or veal, and spinach is often incorporated into pasta dishes like the famous Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Ravioli. American adaptations of Florentine dishes, such as the Chicken Florentine Meatballs, often feature ground chicken as a leaner alternative to the more traditional meats. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with a splash of white wine also sets this dish apart from traditional Italian preparations, giving it a unique American twist.

How Chicken Florentine Meatballs Differ From Similar Dishes

At first glance, Chicken Florentine Meatballs may seem like a variation of traditional meatball dishes, but there are a few distinct differences. First, the inclusion of spinach directly into the meatball mixture sets it apart from more typical meatball recipes, which often use breadcrumbs, egg, and meat alone. This spinach addition infuses the meatballs with both flavor and moisture. Additionally, the white wine and cream-based sauce is a defining feature of Chicken Florentine Meatballs, which distinguishes it from marinara sauce commonly found in other Italian-American meatball recipes. This creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese is rich, velvety, and pairs perfectly with the tender, spinach-filled meatballs.

Where Chicken Florentine Meatballs Are Typically Served

Chicken Florentine Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, but they are particularly popular as a hearty dinner option. They are often paired with pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, which complements the rich and creamy sauce. Alternatively, they can be served over a bed of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a low-carb option. The dish is also commonly found in American households for weeknight meals, as well as in Italian-American restaurants that offer a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. Whether enjoyed in a casual dinner setting or as part of a more formal meal, Chicken Florentine Meatballs are sure to impress.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Florentine Meatballs

• The term "Florentine" can be found in many Italian recipes, but its not strictly used in traditional Italian cooking. The style is more popular in Italian-American cuisine.
• Spinach was once considered a luxury vegetable in Italy during the Renaissance and was favored by nobles, making it a fitting choice for "Florentine" dishes.
• Chicken Florentine Meatballs are often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, thanks to the lean protein of chicken and the added nutrition of spinach.
• While the meatballs are baked, many variations of this dish involve pan-frying the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce. This method gives the meatballs a crispy exterior.

In conclusion, Chicken Florentine Meatballs are a delicious fusion of flavors and cultural influences. With their roots in Italian culinary traditions, they are reimagined through American creativity to deliver a comforting and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite at your dinner table.

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