Low Carb Chicken Parm Meatballs

Low Carb Chicken Parm Meatballs are a delicious, healthy twist on the classic chicken parmesan, using ground chicken to make meatballs and skipping the breadcrumbs for a low-carb version. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade low-carb chicken parm meatballs:

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup almond flour (for a low-carb binder)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) sugar-free marinara sauce (or your favorite low-carb marinara)
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Make the Meatballs:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan, egg, almond flour, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to form meatballs.

3. Form the Meatballs:

   • Scoop out about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.

4. Bake the Meatballs:

   • Bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Prepare the Sauce:

   • While the meatballs are baking, heat the sugar-free marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer and stir occasionally. Once the meatballs are done, you’ll pour this sauce over them.

6. Assemble the Chicken Parm:

   • Once the meatballs are baked, spoon the warm marinara sauce over each meatball. Then sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese on top of each meatball.

7. Melt the Cheese:

   • Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness.
   • Serve hot, and enjoy your low-carb chicken parm meatballs with a side salad, zucchini noodles, or your favorite low-carb veggie!

These meatballs are flavorful, cheesy, and perfect for anyone looking to cut carbs without sacrificing taste. Enjoy!