Cheesy Hidden Veggie Chicken Meatball Mini Pizzas

• 1 lb ground chicken breast
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 whole wheat English muffins, split in half
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: sliced black olives or mini pepperoni for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated carrot, chopped spinach, 1/4 cup mozzarella, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
4. While meatballs bake, toast the English muffin halves lightly under the broiler or in a toaster oven for 2-3 minutes until just golden.
5. Remove meatballs from oven and slice each meatball in half horizontally. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each toasted English muffin half.
6. Place two meatball halves on top of each muffin half, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and a little Parmesan cheese. Add optional toppings if desired.
7. Return the assembled mini pizzas to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. These mini pizzas are best enjoyed warm.

Chef tips

• Finely grate or chop vegetables to help them blend seamlessly into the meatballs, hiding the veggies effectively.
• If you don’t have whole wheat English muffins, small naan breads or pita halves make great substitutes.
• To speed cooking, use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese and ready-made pizza sauce.
• Make sure to cook the meatballs thoroughly (internal temp of 165°F) to ensure food safety.