Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. The juicy, savory chicken meatballs coated in garlic butter offer a comforting, satisfying taste, while the light and fluffy cauliflower rice keeps it low-carb and nutritious. It’s a convenient meal prep option that stays fresh for days, making your busy weekdays a breeze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chicken
• Garlic, minced
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• Lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Add more minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
6. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter until fully coated.
7. In another pan, cook the cauliflower rice with a bit of olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice until tender.
8. Portion the cauliflower rice and garlic butter chicken meatballs into meal prep containers.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the meatball mixture for extra heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in mozzarella or feta cheese for a gooey center.
• Herb Infusion: Swap parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Store the meal prep containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs separately for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. For best texture, reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat.

FAQs

How do I prevent the chicken meatballs from drying out?

Using a combination of egg, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan helps retain moisture. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and offers a similar texture and flavor.

Is cauliflower rice healthier than regular rice?

Cauliflower rice is lower in carbs and calories, making it a great option for low-carb and keto diets.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace butter with olive oil.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen meatballs?

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or skillet until heated through.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini pair well with the flavors.

How do I make the meatballs more flavorful?

Add spices like paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to enhance the taste.

Can I meal prep this for the entire week?

Yes, it stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze portions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I cook the meatballs on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, pan-fry the meatballs in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.

Conclusion

Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful, nutritious, and convenient dish perfect for busy weekdays. Its versatility allows for easy modifications, and it stores well, making it a meal prep favorite. Enjoy the rich garlic butter flavor combined with light, healthy cauliflower rice in every bite.

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