Cooking up comfort has never been easier with this chicken meatball cassoulet. Combining tender chicken meatballs with creamy beans and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a hug in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly evenings when only something hearty will do.
Why This Recipe Works
- The chicken meatballs are lighter than traditional pork or beef, making the dish feel less heavy without sacrificing flavor.
- Slow cooking the cassoulet allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth of taste that’s hard to resist.
- Using canned beans cuts down on prep time without compromising the dish’s heartiness.
- The addition of fresh herbs at the end brightens up the rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Form into 1-inch balls. Heat 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, just nicely browned. Tip: Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same Dutch oven, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the diced onion and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes. This builds the flavor base for your cassoulet. The onions should be translucent, and the carrots slightly softened.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Add the browned meatballs, white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly, and the meatballs will cook through. Tip: If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the cassoulet. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, try browning the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made chicken meatballs, but browning them first is key to developing flavor. For a thicker sauce, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot. This will naturally thicken the cassoulet without needing flour or cornstarch. Lastly, this dish tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken meatballs for turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
- Add greens like spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost.
- For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meatball mixture.
- Use different beans like cannellini or navy beans for variety.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meatballs and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld even more, making the dish incredibly flavorful.
Can I freeze the cassoulet?
Yes, this cassoulet freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove over medium heat.
What can I serve with this dish?
This cassoulet is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and crusty bread. For a more formal meal, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or polenta.
Summary
This chicken meatball cassoulet is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender meatballs, creamy beans, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences and schedule.
