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Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Gravy & Rice

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### **2. Ingredients for Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Gravy & Rice**

To make Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Gravy and Rice, you will need the following ingredients:

**For the Chicken Meatballs:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds flavor)
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for freshness and color)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

**For the Creamy Gravy:**
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium for a healthier option)
– 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
– 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

**For the Rice:**
– 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice or brown rice
– 3 cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
– Salt to taste

### **3. Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Gravy & Rice**

**Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Meatballs**

1. **Mix the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s just combined — be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

2. **Shape the Meatballs:** Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. If you prefer larger meatballs, feel free to make them bigger — just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. **Cook the Meatballs:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they don’t crowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning gently, until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

**Step 2: Making the Creamy Gravy**

1. **Create a Roux:** In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk it constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will thicken your gravy.

2. **Add the Broth and Cream:** Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuing to whisk, making sure no lumps form. Once the broth is incorporated, add the heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

3. **Season the Gravy:** Stir in salt, pepper, and any herbs you’re using (such as thyme or Italian seasoning). Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

4. **Return the Meatballs to the Gravy:** Once the gravy has thickened, return the cooked meatballs to the skillet. Spoon the gravy over the meatballs and let them simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

**Step 3: Cooking the Rice**

1. **Rinse the Rice:** For fluffy rice, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking.

2. **Cook the Rice:** In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes (depending on the type of rice), or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

3. **Fluff the Rice:** Once cooked, remove the rice from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

### **4. Plating and Serving Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Gravy & Rice**

To serve, place a generous scoop of rice on each plate. Top the rice with several chicken meatballs, ensuring each meatball is drenched in the creamy gravy. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or roasted carrots, for a complete and well-rounded meal. You can also add a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the gravy.


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