These creamy Marry Me Chicken meatballs are a tasty treat! Made with tender chicken and a rich, dreamy sauce, they’re perfect for any dinner. Trust me, they might just win over your heart!
Whip these up for a cozy night in and watch everyone swoon. They’re great on pasta or alone—easy to share, but you’ll probably want them all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatballs. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use ground turkey or even lean ground beef as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using reduced-fat Parmesan or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, swap with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes; they work surprisingly well too!
Fresh Basil: For freshness and flavor, fresh basil is a must! If you don’t have it, feel free to use dried basil, though the flavor is stronger, so you may need less.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: They bring in a punch of flavor. If they’re hard to find, you can use fresh tomatoes sautéed until softened, or even roasted red peppers for a different taste.
How Do I Shape Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but it’s mostly about consistency. Here are a few tips to get it right:
- Keep your hands damp while forming the meatballs. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Make them uniform in size, about 1.5 inches each, so they cook evenly.
- Don’t pack them too tightly; a light touch helps them stay tender while cooking.
Taking these steps will make sure your meatballs are juicy and cook perfectly without becoming dense!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Meatballs for Flavor?
The trick here is to pan-fry your meatballs instead of baking. Frying gives them a delicious browned crust that locks in flavor. Here’s how:
- Use a non-stick skillet and add olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Cook the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding; this way, they brown evenly.
- Turn them gently to ensure all sides are golden brown. This takes about 6-8 minutes.
This method not only enhances flavor but also makes sure they stay moist and tender! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, making it ready in just about 35 minutes. A quick, yet delicious dinner that comes together nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, mix gently until everything is evenly combined. Don’t over-mix to keep the meatballs tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the Cream and Seasonings:
Pour in the heavy cream, then add in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the meatballs and let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soak up those delicious flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh chopped basil. Enjoy your creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs warm, perhaps served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that wonderful sauce!
Enjoy your rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe. It will yield a slightly different flavor, but the texture will remain very similar. Just be sure to avoid overcooking it to keep the meatballs moist!
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free meatballs, simply substitute the Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. This will help bind the meatballs while keeping the gluten out!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just form the meatballs, cover them, and you’ll be ready to cook when it suits you!
What Should I Serve with Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own or served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A side salad or steamed vegetables would also complement the dish nicely!
