If you’re searching for a meal that’s guaranteed to impress, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. This delightful twist on the classic marry me chicken recipe transforms the beloved flavors into tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a cozy date night or a family dinner, this dish is as heartwarming as it is delicious, making it a standout among chicken dinner recipes.
The name alone suggests a dish so irresistible that it might just inspire a proposal! With its rich combination of Italian-inspired ingredients and comforting textures, these chicken meatballs are an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a memorable meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable yet feels like a gourmet treat.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create this mouthwatering main course. From the ingredients to the preparation, you’ll find all the tips and tricks to make this one of your go-to easy weeknight dinners. So, let’s dive into the world of comfort food with a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Category: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
What You’ll Need
To craft the perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. The ground chicken serves as the base for tender, juicy meatballs, while breadcrumbs and Parmesan add structure and a savory depth. Fresh herbs like parsley bring a burst of color and freshness, and the egg acts as a binder to hold everything together. For the signature creamy sauce, heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes create a luscious, tangy backdrop, while garlic and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with classic Italian recipes flair. These elements combine to make a truly unforgettable family friendly dinner.
Get ready to cook with these fresh Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!
INGREDIENTS
- – 1 lb ground chicken
- – 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 1 large egg
- – 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1/2 tsp salt
- – 1/4 tsp black pepper
- – 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- – 1 cup chicken broth
- – 1 cup heavy cream
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- – Fresh basil, for garnish
PREPARATION
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, to form the meatballs. You should get around 20-24 meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage).
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 30g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Servings: 4-6
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
When making chicken meatballs, the key to tenderness is avoiding overmixing the ingredients. Use a light hand to combine the mixture, and if it feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs. Wetting your hands before rolling can also prevent sticking and help form uniform balls for even cooking.
Customizing the Sauce
The creamy sauce in this marry me chicken recipe is highly adaptable. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk, though it may not be as rich. Fresh spinach or kale can also be stirred in for a pop of color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs shine when served over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the sauce to cling to every strand. Alternatively, pair them with mashed potatoes or steamed rice for a hearty comfort food experience. A side of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this main course store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the meatballs tough.
Why Chicken Meatballs?
Opting for chicken over traditional beef or pork in meatballs offers a lighter yet still satisfying option. Ground chicken absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an excellent canvas for the bold, creamy sauce of this marry me chicken dish. It’s also a great choice for those looking to reduce red meat in their family friendly dinners.
Make-Ahead Options
For busy weeknights, prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking, and whip up the sauce fresh for the best results in your easy weeknight dinners.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute for ground chicken in this Marry Me Chicken Meatballs recipe. It has a similar lean profile and will absorb the flavors of the sauce just as well. Just ensure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To adapt this marry me chicken recipe for a dairy-free diet, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative. Swap the Parmesan cheese with a nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese option. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious, maintaining its comfort food appeal.
What if my meatballs fall apart?
If your chicken meatballs are crumbling during cooking, it could be due to insufficient binding. Ensure you’ve added enough egg and breadcrumbs to the mixture. Chilling the formed meatballs for 15-20 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape better.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter preparation. Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Then, transfer them to the sauce to finish cooking as directed.
Savor the creamy goodness of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs tonight!
Conclusion
These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are more than just a meal; they’re an experience that brings warmth and love to the table. With their tender texture, creamy sauce, and irresistible Italian-inspired flavors, they’re bound to become a staple in your collection of chicken dinner recipes. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or simply treating your family to a delightful main course, this dish delivers on every level.
Ready to create some kitchen magic? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and watch as this recipe wins over everyone at the table. Don’t forget to share your results with us, and explore more easy weeknight dinners on our site for additional inspiration. Happy cooking!
