Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl Recipe

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Perfectly seasoned, golden-brown chicken meatballs meet a medley of nutrient-rich ingredients in this vibrant and wholesome Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl. Juicy, tender bites of ground chicken are blended with fresh herbs and spices, then seared to a crisp finish. Paired with hearty kale, roasted sweet potatoes, savory chickpeas, and a refreshing herby yogurt sauce, this bowl is as satisfying as it is nourishing.

Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or prepping meals ahead for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor and balanced nutrition in every bite. It’s colorful, packed with protein and fiber, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or grains. This is one of those food ideas you’ll want to keep in your rotation, especially if you’re always on the hunt for easy recipes or fresh dinner ideas that don’t sacrifice taste.

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Ingredients for this Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl Recipe

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
• 1 egg

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups kale, chopped and lightly sautéed or massaged
• 1 cup chickpeas (canned or cooked), seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes, cubed and seasoned with paprika and garlic powder
• Olive oil, for cooking

For the Herby Yogurt Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 small garlic clove, minced

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped red onion, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and breadcrumbs (if using) and mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until soft and slightly crisp on the edges.

Step 4: Sauté the Kale

Add a small drizzle of olive oil to a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped kale and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted and slightly crispy. Alternatively, massage raw kale with olive oil and a pinch of salt if you prefer a fresher texture.

Step 5: Season the Chickpeas

If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them first. Then, toss them in a pan with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until lightly toasted and warmed through.

Step 6: Make the Herby Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and optional garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust lemon or herb quantities to your preference.

Step 7: Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of kale. Arrange the roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and chicken meatballs around the bowl. Spoon generous dollops of herby yogurt sauce over the top, and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 bowl – estimate, will vary based on portion size and substitutions):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground chicken should I use?

Use lean ground chicken (usually labeled 90/10 or 93/7) for a healthier bowl, or go for a mix of white and dark meat for juicier meatballs.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpea flour blends work well.

Are the meatballs gluten-free?

They can be! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely if the mixture holds together well.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Swap the Greek yogurt in the sauce with a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond-based) for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use spinach instead of kale?

Yes! Sautéed or fresh spinach works as a great substitute, and so do other greens like Swiss chard or arugula.

What grains can I add to this bowl?

You can bulk it up with quinoa, farro, couscous, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice if you’re keeping it low-carb.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s perfect for meal prep! Cook all the components in advance and assemble bowls throughout the week.

Can I make the meatballs in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and cooked through.

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