Chicken & Zucchini Mini Meatballs

Ingredients

• 100 g ground chicken or blended chicken breast
• 30 g zucchini (courgette), finely grated and squeezed
• 1 teaspoon oat flour
• A little oil for shaping (avocado or olive)
• A light spray of oil for the air fryer, if needed
• To serve (optional): soft-cooked pasta, very soft-cooked carrot sticks and cucumber spears

Method

1. 01

   Finely grate the zucchini and squeeze out the excess water with clean hands or a clean kitchen towel.

2. 02

   Combine the chicken, zucchini and oat flour in a bowl. Mix well.

3. 03

   Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes so the oat flour can absorb the moisture.

4. 04

   Lightly oil your hands and shape the mixture into 5–6 mini finger-shaped meatballs.

5. 05

   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the meatballs in a single layer and spray the tops with a little oil if needed.

6. 06

   Air fry for about 17 minutes, turning halfway through.

7. 07

   Check that the meatballs are fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and no pink in the middle. Cool to a safe temperature before serving.

How to offer

Makes 5–6 mini finger-shaped meatballs. From 9 months, offer a whole finger-shaped meatball baby can hold, or break it into small, soft pieces. They should be soft enough to squash between your fingers. Break one open to check the middle is fully cooked before serving. Make sure the carrots are very soft. Use certified gluten-free oat flour if needed. Avoid adding salt to baby's portion. Always supervise baby during mealtime.

Storage

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 1 month; reheat until piping hot all the way through, then cool before serving.

Nutrition note

Vitamins B6 and B12, iron, zinc, choline, selenium, and vitamin B3 are just a few of the elements found in chicken that babies require to survive. When taken as a whole, these nutrients support antioxidant functions, provide energy for cells, produce healthy blood, support a keen sense of taste and smell, and improve brain health.

Nutrition information is general guidance, not medical advice. Read our nutrition disclaimer