Introduction
If you’re looking for a unique, nutritious twist on traditional chicken dishes, these Chicken Muffins with Spinach Artichoke Tomato Sauce might just become your new favorite. This recipe offers a perfect balance of lean protein, hearty vegetables, and savory flavors, all while being quick and easy to make. Ground chicken muffins bake up in just 25 minutes, and the vibrant tomato sauce enriched with spinach and artichokes complements them beautifully, creating a meal that looks just as good as it tastes.
Ingredients with Quantities
Let’s break down the ingredients into two parts: one for the chicken muffins and another for the tomato-based spinach artichoke sauce.
For the Chicken Muffins:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray
For the Spinach Artichoke Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Directions and Preparation Method
This recipe consists of two main parts: preparing the chicken muffins and making the spinach artichoke tomato sauce.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly coat a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Muffin Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Muffins
- Divide the chicken mixture into 12 equal portions.
- Using your hands, press each portion into the muffin tin to form individual “muffins.”
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken muffins are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare the Spinach Artichoke Tomato Sauce
- While the muffins are baking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped artichoke hearts, allowing the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes.
- Add the chopped fresh spinach and Italian seasoning, stirring well. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach is fully wilted.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in some freshly chopped basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the chicken muffins from the oven and carefully pop them out of the muffin tin.
- Serve the muffins warm, topped generously with the spinach artichoke tomato sauce.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
- Yes! The chicken muffins can be prepared in advance, baked, and then stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored separately in an airtight container.
2. Can I freeze the chicken muffins?
- Absolutely. Allow the chicken muffins to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
3. What’s a good substitution for ground chicken?
- If you prefer, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or even lean ground beef. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will work just as well with the sauce.
4. Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
- The sauce is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option if you’re avoiding dairy. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese in the chicken muffins if you’d like the entire recipe to be dairy-free.
5. Can I add extra vegetables to the sauce?
- Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These will increase the nutrient content and add a bit more texture to the sauce.
Conclusion
These Chicken Muffins with Spinach Artichoke Tomato Sauce are an inventive and delicious way to enjoy ground chicken. They’re easy to prepare, packed with protein, and bring together a harmonious mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for a family dinner or as a meal prep option for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to serve chicken or a healthy dish that satisfies, these chicken muffins are the answer. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a spoonful of warm, savory tomato sauce, and don’t forget the garnish of fresh basil for a beautiful finishing touch.