Every now and then, a recipe comes along that shakes up the traditional in the best way possible. This Chicken Meatball Cassoulet does just that, combining the heartiness of a classic cassoulet with the lightness of chicken meatballs. It’s a dish that promises comfort without the heaviness, perfect for any season.
Why This Recipe Works
- The chicken meatballs offer a lighter alternative to traditional pork or duck, making the dish more accessible without sacrificing flavor.
- Slow cooking the cassoulet allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods.
- Using a mix of beans adds texture and visual appeal, making each bite interesting.
- The addition of fresh herbs at the end brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the stew.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups mixed beans (canned or cooked)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and minced garlic. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through at this stage, just nicely colored. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes. This builds the flavor base for your cassoulet. If the pan seems dry, add a splash more olive oil.
Combine and Simmer
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a Dutch oven or large pot. Add the mixed beans, chicken stock, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer, then gently add the browned meatballs. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 1 hour. This slow cooking process is key to developing the dish’s flavors.
Season and Serve
After an hour, check the seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste. The meatballs should be cooked through, and the beans tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than browning. If you’re short on time, using canned beans is a great shortcut—just be sure to rinse them well to remove any excess sodium. For a thicker cassoulet, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will naturally thicken the stew without the need for flour or cornstarch.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Swap the chicken meatballs for turkey or even plant-based alternatives for a different twist.
- Incorporate different herbs like sage or tarragon to change the flavor profile.
- Add a splash of white wine to the vegetables before adding the stock for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cassoulet actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze the cassoulet?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this cassoulet?
A simple green salad and a crusty baguette are perfect accompaniments, balancing the richness of the cassoulet with freshness and crunch.
Summary
This Chicken Meatball Cassoulet is a delightful twist on the classic, offering a lighter yet equally comforting alternative. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
