Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs with Apple Spinach Salad and Maple

by

Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs with Apple Spinach Salad and Maple-Lime Dressing

Looking for a light, flavorful, and refreshing meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? These Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs paired with a vibrant apple spinach salad and drizzled with a zesty maple-lime dressing are a match made in heaven. The savory meatballs are juicy with a citrusy punch, while the crisp salad brings sweetness, crunch, and creaminess all in one bite. It’s healthy, colorful, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)

For the Apple Spinach Salad:

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 red apple, thinly sliced
  • 1 green apple, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Maple-Lime Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Mix just until combined. Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter).

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through—about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together spinach, apple slices, red onion, cheese, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together maple syrup, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or shake together in a sealed jar until emulsified.

Step 4: Assemble the Plate

Arrange meatballs on a plate alongside or on top of the salad. Drizzle generously with maple-lime dressing right before serving.

Recipe Notes

  • Make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs.
  • For extra lemony flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the meatball mix.
  • Meal prep tip: Cook meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Assemble salad fresh before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Leave a Comment