Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
Chicken Meatballs (Tefteli):
- 1 – 1 1/4 lb ground chicken (preferably thighs)
- 1 cup cooked white rice, cooled
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 garlic clove, pressed
- 1/2 tsp salt (sea salt recommended)
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup flour for dredging
- 2 Tbsp oil (extra light olive oil recommended)
Sauce:
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt, or heavy cream)
- 1/2 to 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, cooked rice, egg, grated onion, pressed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form into 1 1/2 inch balls, then lightly dredge in flour.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the meatballs back to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Cook Notes
The addition of rice to the meatball mixture not only extends the meat but also gives the meatballs a wonderfully tender texture that’s different from traditional bread crumb-filled meatballs.
Variations
Keto Version
Substitute the white rice in the meatballs with cauliflower rice and use almond flour for dredging. For the sauce, thicken with xanthan gum instead of flour and use a keto-friendly sour cream.
Low-Carb Version
Follow the keto version but feel free to adjust the amount of cauliflower rice to match your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
A serving of Chicken Meatballs in a Cream Sauce approximately contains:
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 22-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sugar: 2-3g
Note: These values are estimates. The keto and low-carb versions will alter these values, especially in reducing carbohydrates.
Chicken Meatballs in a Cream Sauce is a versatile, comforting dish that showcases how simple ingredients can be elevated into something truly special. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe promises to deliver in both taste and satisfaction.
