I was trying to figure out ways to make meatballs without using eggs as my son has an egg white allergy. I tried just using egg yokes but he still had a sensitivity to them so I came up with this chicken and applesauce meatball recipe which is a variation on the chicken and apple sausage.
These meatballs are super moist and have a hint of sweetness because of the applesauce I use to bind the ingredients together. I hope you like them!
CHICKEN & APPLE MEATBALLS
Ingredients:
1 Pound ground chicken
1/2 cup of sauteed chopped onion (saute with a pinch of salt)
2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs*
1 cup applesauce
2 tbsps ketchup
1/2 cup grated parmesan or pecorino romano
salt and pepper to taste
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 jars of tomato sauce of your choice
In a deep covered saucepan, simmer the 2 jars of tomato sauce while you prepare the meatballs. In a mixing bowl, mix all ingredients except for the olive oil and form into small balls, yields approximately 16 for bite-size portions.
In a shallow saute pan, add olive oil and place meatballs in to sear. Once the meatballs are lightly browned on all sides, transfer them to the tomato sauce to simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Because of the higher sugar content in the applesauce, the meatballs may need to be turned over quickly so as not to burn.
I love to serve shells or penne to serve with the meatballs and don't forget to grate some more cheese to top off your dish!
Hope you like this recipe. I feel like it's a very healthy and kid-friendly version on a classic recipe. These meatballs freeze really well too!
*DOUBLE DUTY TIP where I give tips on how to replace pantry items if you're in a pinch!
When I didn't have bread crumbs in the pantry, I used dried stuffing which I pounded into crumbs. I also have taken 5 pieces of toast and threw them in the food processor to make fresh bread crumbs.
