Jerk Chicken Meatball Pasta 🍗🌶️
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp jerk seasoning
1 tbsp finely chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni or any pasta of your choice
Salt (for pasta water)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp jerk seasoning
1 cup spinach (optional, for extra greens)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, jerk seasoning, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in size.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet.
Finish cooking the meatballs in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked through.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the jerk seasoning. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce cook for 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Add the spinach (if using) and cook for another minute until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
Gently add the cooked jerk chicken meatballs on top and serve with extra parsley and parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your Jerk Chicken Meatball Pasta! 🍝🔥 Perfectly spicy, creamy, and flavorful for a hearty dinner.