Looking for a healthy, fun, and easy-to-eat meal for your baby? These Pumpkin Rice Balls with Steamed Chicken are just what you need! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the protein-packed goodness of chicken, creating a colorful, nutrient-rich meal that your little one will love.
These bite-sized rice balls are perfect for baby-led weaning (BLW) as they are easy for tiny hands to grab and self-feed. Plus, they’re a great way to introduce new flavors and textures to your baby’s developing taste buds. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe!
Why Pumpkin Rice Balls with Steamed Chicken Are Great for Babies
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Rich in Vitamin A: Pumpkin is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is essential for your baby’s vision and immune system.
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Protein-Packed: The chicken adds a great source of protein, which is important for growth and development.
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Baby-Led Weaning Friendly: These rice balls are small, easy to hold, and fun for your baby to munch on.
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Nutrient-Rich: With the combination of pumpkin, rice, and chicken, this meal is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support your baby’s health.
Recipe: Pumpkin Rice Balls with Steamed Chicken for Babies
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup cooked rice (preferably brown rice for added fiber)
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1/4 cup pumpkin puree (or boiled and mashed pumpkin)
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1 small chicken breast, steamed and shredded
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1 teaspoon olive oil or unsalted butter
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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A pinch of salt (optional and for babies over 1 year old)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Rice and Pumpkin
If you haven’t already, cook the rice according to package instructions. Steam or boil the pumpkin until soft and then mash it to a smooth puree.
Step 2: Steam the Chicken
Steam the chicken breast until fully cooked, about 10-15 minutes depending on thickness. Once done, let it cool and shred it into small pieces or finely chop it.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, pumpkin puree, and shredded chicken. If you’re using garlic powder and a small pinch of salt (for babies over 1), add them in now. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Shape the Rice Balls
With your hands, take small portions of the rice mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. You can also slightly flatten them into small patties if your baby prefers that shape.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the pumpkin rice balls to your baby once they are cool enough to eat. These rice balls are perfect for little hands to pick up and enjoy on their own!
Serving Tips
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Pair these rice balls with some steamed vegetables or soft fruits, like avocado or banana, for a well-rounded meal.
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Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for later. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why Moms Love This Recipe
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Nutrient-Rich: A perfect balance of protein, vitamins, and fiber for your growing baby.
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Easy to Eat: The rice balls are small and easy for your baby to grab and self-feed.
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Quick & Simple: You can prepare this meal in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy parents.
These Pumpkin Rice Balls with Steamed Chicken are a nutritious, fun, and easy-to-make meal that your baby will love. They’re a great option for baby-led weaning, offering a combination of healthy ingredients that support your little one’s growth and development.
Have you tried making these pumpkin rice balls for your baby? Let us know how your little one enjoyed them or share any variations you love in the comments! Don’t forget to follow us for more fun and healthy baby food ideas.