Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Sauce Recipe for Easy Comfort Meals

Why You’ll Love This Tefteli

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re looking for a dish that brings simple joy to your table, this tefteli recipe is a game-changer. It’s all about that easy mix of flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Let’s talk about why this chicken-based tefteli will quickly become your go-to for busy nights.

First off, it’s super simple to whip up. This tefteli recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for when life gets hectic. You’ll mix everything in one bowl and have dinner ready in about 40 minutes total. Plus, it serves 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family meals or sharing with friends.

Then, there’s the health angle that makes it shine. Made with lean ground chicken, like thighs for extra juiciness, this dish packs in protein while keeping things light. The cooked white rice adds some carbs for energy, and veggies like onion and garlic sneak in vitamins. It’s a balanced meal that supports your wellness without skimping on taste.

Don’t forget how versatile it is for different diets. You can tweak it for vegan swaps or use gluten-free flour for coating. That means everyone at your table can enjoy it, no matter their preferences. And oh, the flavor! The creamy sauce with paprika and sour cream gives it a unique twist that’s way more exciting than regular meatballs.

This recipe really shines because it pairs so well with everyday sides. Think mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up that sauce, and add some baby dill pickles for a fun crunch. Whether you’re a busy parent or a student cooking on a budget, tefteli brings comfort without the fuss. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Jump To

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Tefteli
• 2. Essential Ingredients for Tefteli
• 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Tefteli: Step-by-Step Guide
• 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tefteli
• 5. Mastering Tefteli: Advanced Tips and Variations
• 6. How to Store Tefteli: Best Practices
• 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tefteli
• 8. Tefteli

Essential Ingredients for Tefteli

Getting the ingredients right is key to making amazing tefteli. This chicken version keeps things fresh and simple, using items you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s break it down so you can shop smart and get cooking without any surprises.

For the meatballs, we’re focusing on quality and balance. Here’s a complete list of everything you’ll need, pulled straight from this recipe. I’ve listed them out clearly so it’s easy to follow along.

• 1 to 1 1/4 pounds ground chicken (preferably thighs)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small grated onion
• 1 pressed garlic clove
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup flour (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons oil (preferably extra light olive oil, for cooking)

Now, for the sauce that makes this dish extra special, gather these items:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt or heavy cream)
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s hearty and full of flavor. If you’re watching your diet, this setup works great for tweaks, like swapping in plant-based options. Imagine grabbing these from your pantry and turning them into a meal that wows!

How to Prepare the Perfect Tefteli: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive in? Making tefteli is as fun as it is tasty, and I’ll walk you through it like we’re chatting in the kitchen. Start by gathering your tools and ingredients to keep things smooth. This chicken tefteli recipe is straightforward, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll nail it.

First, mix the main ingredients in a big bowl. Combine 1 to 1 1/4 pounds of ground chicken, 1 cup of cooled cooked white rice, 1 large egg, 1 small grated onion, 1 pressed garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir it all until it’s evenly blended think of it as giving your ingredients a good chat.

Next, shape the mixture into meatballs. Roll them into 1 to 1 1/4 inch balls and lightly coat each one with 1/2 cup of flour. This helps them get that perfect golden crust. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra light olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Now, cook the meatballs. Sauté them for 4 minutes on one side, then flip and cover the skillet for another 3 minutes until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, take them out and set aside. Isn’t it cool how quick that is?

For the sauce, use the same skillet to keep those flavors going. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook until it’s golden. Slowly add 2 cups of reduced sodium chicken broth, stirring until it thickens up nicely.

Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream and season with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste. Bring it to a simmer, add the meatballs back in to coat them, and let everything warm through. The sauce will thicken as it cools, making your tefteli even better. For more chicken ideas, check out this smothered chicken and rice recipe on our site.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill, and serve with sides like mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. Baby dill pickles add a zippy touch. This whole process takes about 20 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking, so you’re done in no time!

Adapting for Different Diets

If you want to switch things up, this recipe is flexible. For a vegan twist, swap the chicken for lentils, and use a flaxseed mix instead of egg. It’s all about making tefteli work for you.

this …

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tefteli

Everyone’s got their own tastes and needs, right? That’s why customizing tefteli is so much fun. Let’s look at some easy swaps to make this chicken version fit your lifestyle. You’ll still get that creamy goodness without any hassle.

For the protein, swap ground chicken with turkey if you want it leaner, or go plant-based with lentils. If onions aren’t your thing, try shallots for a milder bite. The sauce can shine with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier feel.

Here are some quick ideas in a table to make it simple:

Original Ingredient	Substitution	Why It Works
Ground chicken	Ground turkey or lentils	Keeps it protein-packed and adaptable for diets
Sour cream	Greek yogurt or heavy cream	Adds creaminess with a lighter option
Flour for coating	Gluten-free flour	Makes it safe for gluten-free eaters

These changes let you play around while keeping the heart of tefteli intact. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, it’s all about what makes you smile.

Mastering Tefteli: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to level up your tefteli game. These tips will help you impress even the pickiest eaters. Think of it as adding your own twist to this classic dish.

Pro techniques include chilling the shaped meatballs before cooking it helps them hold together better. For more flavor, mix in spices like cumin. If you want to sneak in veggies, grated zucchini works wonders for moisture.

Here are some variations to try:

• Add smoked paprika for a smoky kick in the sauce.
• Use quinoa instead of rice for a nutty texture.
• Serve on a bed of greens for a fresher meal.

Presentation is key too top with parsley and pair with crusty bread. For another tasty option, check out our stuffed chicken recipe.

How to Store Tefteli: Best Practices

Leftovers are the best part of cooking, and tefteli stores like a dream. Keep it fresh so you can enjoy it later without losing that amazing taste. Here’s how to do it right.

Pop your cooked tefteli in an airtight container and fridge it for up to 3-4 days. For longer, freeze it in bags raw or cooked works fine. When you’re ready, thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Meal prep pro tip: Cook a big batch and divide it into portions. This way, you’ve got quick dinners ready. It’s perfect for busy weeks when you need something comforting fast.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tefteli

Print