Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 ounces finely grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup half-and-half, divided
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 ounces baby spinach (about 4 packed cups)
Instructions
- Arrange a rack in the upper third of the oven and heat to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil sprayed with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup Parmesan, parsley, panko, 1/4 cup half-and-half, egg, 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add ground chicken and mix until evenly combined; avoid overmixing. Form into 20 meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on the baking sheet.
- Roast until cooked through (165°F internal), 12–15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add remaining 2 garlic cloves, flour, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Add remaining 3/4 cup half-and-half and chicken broth. Whisk smooth, bring to a boil, then simmer until slightly thickened, 4–5 minutes.
- Broil meatballs 2–3 minutes until browned, then add spinach and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan to the sauce. Stir until spinach wilts, 30 seconds.
- Transfer meatballs to the sauce, gently coat, and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Make ahead: Meatballs can be prepped raw or baked up to 2 days in advance, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Add a splash of half-and-half or broth to loosen sauce when reheating.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake + Stovetop
- Cuisine: American