Chicken and Bacon Meatballs

Chicken meatballs are one of those meals that can pass as a comfort meal, as well as a staple on a fancy dinner table. Its versatility makes it suitable for all occasions and for all age groups. Often but not always, it’s paired with main dishes like spaghetti, and mashed potatoes. Regardless of which main it’s served with, or if it’s eaten alone; this meal is sure to linger on in the hearts and souls of your guests as an unforgettable dish.  

Ingredients

• 1 large egg, beaten.
• 1 tablespoon white wine
• 3 cloves garlic finely minced.
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces.
• 3 ounces bacon, diced.
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
• 3 ounces crumbled fresh French breadcrumbs.
• ⅓ cup sautéed onions 
• ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
• 4 cups prepared tomato sauce
• Oil for greasing pan

Directions

1. Mix chicken and diced bacon and place in the freezer for about 15 minutes, or until firm and partially frozen.
2. Add freshly processed breadcrumbs to the bowl of a food processor. Combine garlic, egg, white wine, parsley, sauteed onions, chili flakes, crushed fennel seeds, pepper, and salt. Finally, add chilled chicken mixture on top. Keep some parsley aside for garnish.
3. Blend using the pulse function of a food processor until meat is grinded. 
4. Transfer the mixture to the fridge and allow to chill for an hour before rolling into balls.
5. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Place foil in the pan and using a brush, lightly rub oil over it. 
6. Place the mixture in a baking tray, using damp hands, divide the mixture into desired portions (preferably 10-12) and roll into smooth balls. 
7. Bake in the preheated oven until meatballs are cooked through for about 18 minutes—they should be brownish in colour when properly cooked.
8. Transfer the cooked meatballs into the tomato sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes for a more flavourful taste. Garnish with the leftover chopped parsley before serving.
9. Serve meatballs as you wish–alone, or with the main dish of choice. We recommend plain white salted spaghetti, or mash and gravy.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Bacon Meatballs!

Chinenye Emezie | Assistant Editor