Chicken Meatballs with Cheesy Spinach

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb. ground chicken
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

For the Cheesy Spinach Pappardelle:

• 8 oz. pappardelle pasta
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups spinach, loosely packed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese

Instructions

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spray a sheet pan or casserole dish with cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper with clean hands.
4. Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them evenly on the prepared sheet pan.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.

For the Cheesy Spinach Pappardelle:

1. While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the spinach and garlic from the skillet and set aside in a bowl.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until combined, forming a roux.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and create a smooth white sauce.
6. Sprinkle in the shaved parmesan cheese and stir with a rubber spatula until melted and combined. Turn off the heat.
7. Add the wilted spinach and garlic back into the skillet, along with the cooked pappardelle. Stir to combine until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy spinach sauce.

To Serve:

1. Using tongs, divide the cheesy spinach pappardelle into four large bowls.
2. Divide the baked chicken meatballs into four portions and place them on top of the pasta.
3. Sprinkle with fresh cracked pepper if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!