Lunch: Linguine Al Limone with Grilled Chia-Chicken Meatballs

Recipe by /contributors/janie-hoffman Chia gel replaces eggs in this recipe, helping keep these chicken meatballs light and fluffy. The sauce is creamy and lemony, a combination that simply melts in the mouth. As an option, try spinach linguine, which pa

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Chia Seeds, Basil

Health benefits of Linguine Al Limone with Grilled Chia-Chicken Meatballs

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. The high fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports digestive health. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve heart health, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including chia seeds in your diet can help provide essential nutrients and support overall health and well-being. Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

1/4 cup white chia seeds
1/2 cup purified water
1 pound ground chicken
3/4 cup rolled (old-fashioned) oats
1/3 cup coarsely grated or minced red onion
1/3 cup plus 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
12 ounces whole grain linguine
1/3 cup half-and-half
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons thinly sliced or chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the chia seeds and water and let stand for about 20 minutes. (Makes 3/4 cup extra-thick chia gel.)
Prepare an indoor or outdoor grill, or preheat the oven to 475 °F.
In a large bowl, use your hands to evenly combine the chia gel, ground chicken, oats, onion, 1/4 cup of the cheese, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the parsley, oregano, garlic, 1 teaspoon of the salt, 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper, and the red pepper flakes. When evenly combined, firmly form mixture into 20 meatballs (about 3 tablespoons each).
Grill over medium heat until well done and brown on all sides, about 15 minutes, rotating only as needed. Alternatively, line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet and roast until well done, about 20 minutes. Insert 4 (10-inch) skewers into cooked meatballs, 5 meatballs each. If necessary, keep warm in 175 °F oven while preparing linguine.
Cook the linguine according to package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving 3/4 cup pasta cooking water.
Bring the half-and-half, the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, and reserved pasta water to a boil over high heat in a large saucepan. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine. Add the lemon juice and toss to combine. Add the remaining 1/3 cup of cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and toss to combine.
Transfer the linguine to four large pasta bowls. Top each with a skewer of chicken meatballs, sprinkle with basil and lemon zest, and serve.