Looking for a delicious and hearty meal that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than this 1 entree Chicken Meatballs with Marinara & Linguine dish, coming in at a satisfying 350 calories.

Not only is this dish low in calories, it's also rich in protein and packed with flavor. Made with tender chicken meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine, this meal is sure to become a new favorite.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, preparation, nutritional value, and the many health benefits of this dish.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you'll need: For the chicken meatballs: ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. For the marinara sauce: crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Preparation

To make the chicken meatballs: 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix until just combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Nutritional Value

This dish provides a balanced meal with a variety of nutrients. One serving contains: calories: 350 Protein: 28g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 8g, Fiber: 6g

Benefits of Chicken Meatballs

Chicken meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. They are lower in fat and calories but still provide a good source of protein. Additionally, chicken is a great source of nutrients such as vitamin B6, which supports brain health, and niacin, which promotes heart health.

Why Choose Linguine?

Linguine is a type of pasta that is similar to spaghetti but slightly wider. It is a great choice for this dish because it holds the marinara sauce well and provides a satisfying texture. Additionally, linguine is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Marinara Sauce: Homemade vs Store-bought

While store-bought marinara sauce can be convenient, homemade marinara sauce is simple to make and can be healthier. Homemade marinara sauce allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. Additionally, many store-bought marinara sauces contain added sugars and preservatives.

Health Benefits of Using Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a great addition to this dish because it provides flavor and nutrients. Tomatoes, the main ingredient in marinara sauce, are a good source of antioxidants such as lycopene, which can help prevent cancer and promote heart health. Additionally, the garlic and onions in the marinara sauce provide immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Chicken Meatballs: A Healthier Alternative to Beef Meatballs

Chicken meatballs are a great alternative to beef meatballs for those looking to reduce their meat consumption or lower their calorie and fat intake. Chicken meatballs are leaner than beef meatballs and provide a good source of protein. Additionally, chicken meatballs are versatile and can be customized with different seasonings and ingredients to fit any taste preference.

Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Meatballs

1. Use lean ground chicken to keep the meatballs from being too fatty. 2. Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat and making the meatballs tough. 3. Bake the meatballs instead of frying them to avoid unnecessary added fat and calories.

Variation Ideas

There are many ways to customize this dish to fit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas: 1. Add vegetables: Consider adding diced bell peppers, grated zucchini, or chopped spinach to the meatballs for an extra boost of nutrients. 2. Try different sauces: While marinara sauce is a classic choice for this dish, you could also try pesto or alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.