Harissa Chicken Meatballs

These Harissa Chicken Meatballs are a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Juicy, flavorful, and packed with a hint of spice, these meatballs can easily steal the show at any meal. With the warm, earthy flavors of harissa paired with tender ground chicken, these meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthier option. Serve them over rice, in a wrap, or alongside a fresh salad, and watch them disappear!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

When it comes to making a dish that everyone will rave about, these Harissa Chicken Meatballs are a top contender. The vibrant flavors of harissa, a North African chili paste, elevate the humble chicken meatball to something extraordinary. They are quick to prepare, can easily be made in bulk, and are versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you are hosting a gathering or looking for family-friendly meal prep, these meatballs hit all the right notes.

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up these flavorful Harissa Chicken Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken – This is the base of your meatballs, providing a lean protein source.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the meatballs.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a lovely smokiness that complements the harissa.
• 1/2 cup frozen riced cauliflower – A great way to sneak in some veggies without compromising texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup packed chopped parsley – Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• 3 large peeled garlic cloves, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
• 1 large egg – Binds the mixture together, keeping the meatballs moist.
• Olive-oil cooking spray – For a light coating that helps the meatballs brown beautifully.
• 2 jars (10 oz each) prepared mild harissa sauce – The star ingredient that gives these meatballs their signature flavor. (I love Mina Harissa.)

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, gather your tools:

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the meatball ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sheet pan – For baking the meatballs in the oven.
• Meatball scooper or tablespoon – To ensure uniformity in size.
• Cooking spray – For easy cleanup and preventing sticking.

Harissa Chicken Meatballs: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delicious Harissa Chicken Meatballs is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, kosher salt, smoked paprika, riced cauliflower, chopped onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a meatball scooper or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Spray and Bake

Lightly spray the meatballs with olive-oil cooking spray. This will help them brown nicely in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve with Harissa Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the harissa sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the warmed harissa sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Substitutions by Category

If you need to make some adjustments based on dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry, here are some substitutions:

• Ground Chicken – You can substitute with ground turkey or lean ground beef for a different flavor profile.
• Riced Cauliflower – If you prefer, you can use grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach as a veggie filler.
• Parsley – Fresh basil or cilantro can be used for an alternative herb flavor.
• Egg – For a vegan option, replace with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Harissa Chicken Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the mixture: This can lead to dense meatballs. Mix until just combined.
• Not using enough seasoning: Since the chicken is lean, it needs ample seasoning to bring out its flavor.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
• Skipping the harissa sauce: The sauce is what gives these meatballs their unique flavor, so don’t skip it!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These Harissa Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how you can store and enjoy them later:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last about 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different type of sauce instead of harissa?

Absolutely! While harissa adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other sauces such as marinara, barbecue, or even a yogurt-based sauce for a different twist.

How can I make these meatballs spicier?

If you love heat, try using a spicy harissa sauce or adding red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for an extra kick!

Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative and yields delicious results. Just follow the baking instructions above.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with various sides such as quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them in pita bread with tzatziki for a Mediterranean-style meal.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you loved these Harissa Chicken Meatballs, you might also enjoy trying out these popular recipes:

• Spicy Chickpea Tacos
• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
• Creamy Garlic Pasta
• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and insights to create the best Harissa Chicken Meatballs, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a delightful culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving these meatballs for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, you’ll be amazed at how quickly they become a favorite. Happy cooking!