Name: Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground chicken; ½ cup dried Italian bread crumbs; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt (to taste); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups chicken broth; ¾ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained); 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ¼ cup fresh basil (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs that draws people in. I remember the first time I made them; it was a cozy evening, and the aroma filled my kitchen, making my family wander in, curious about what was cooking. The blend of flavors is simply irresistible—each bite takes you on a savory journey. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, these meatballs have a way of turning any meal into a celebration. They’re not just delicious; they’re packed with love, making them perfect for impressing someone special or simply treating yourself. As I plated them, I couldn’t help but feel proud of what I had created, knowing that the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs would leave a lasting impression on anyone who tasted them.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Skillet, Whisk

Why We Love This Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Flavor Explosion

The first thing that stands out about the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs is their incredible flavor. The combination of ground chicken, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a depth of taste that is both comforting and exciting. You’ll notice the sweet, tangy notes from the tomatoes pairing beautifully with the savory Parmesan cheese, making each bite something special.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not a culinary expert; this recipe is straightforward and approachable. The preparation is simple, and the cooking process is forgiving. You can whip up a batch of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs in no time, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a gathering with friends, or a special family meal, these meatballs fit right in. They’re versatile and can be served with various sides, making them suitable for any occasion. Plus, they’re a hit during holidays like Valentine’s Day, making them a great choice for a festive dinner.

Leftovers to Savor

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! The flavors of the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs deepen with time, making them even tastier the next day. Reheating is a breeze, and they make excellent meals for lunchboxes or quick dinners during busy weeks.

Impressive Presentation

Last but not least, these meatballs look as good as they taste. With their rich sauce and fresh basil garnish, they are visually appealing and sure to impress anyone you serve them to. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef when you plate them!

Ingredient List for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating the perfect dish. Each component complements the others perfectly, balancing flavors and textures. The star of the show, ground chicken, keeps the meatballs tender, while Italian bread crumbs provide just the right amount of substance. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, and the heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously smooth. Together, these ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors that you won’t forget!

1 ½ pounds ground chicken: The base of the meatballs, offering a light texture and a rich flavor.
½ cup dried Italian bread crumbs: These add a delightful crunch and help bind the meatballs together.
1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, making the meatballs moist and tender.

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the meatballs with aromatic flavors.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic adds an essential aromatic touch.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings an extra layer of flavor to the meatballs.

½ teaspoon salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, cheesy flavor that complements the chicken.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying the meatballs, imparting a subtle flavor.

3 tablespoons butter: Enhances the sauce, adding richness and depth.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: A little extra garlic never hurt anyone!
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.

1 ½ cups chicken broth: The liquid base for the sauce, adding flavor and moisture.
¾ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce creamy and indulgent.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Additional cheese to further enhance the flavor.

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained: Adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A little more flavor boost for the sauce.
¼ cup fresh basil, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Recipe Directions for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Cooking the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs is a delightful process, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Follow these steps closely, and feel free to add your own touch as you go along. This recipe is forgiving, allowing room for creativity!

In a medium-sized bowl, add 1 ½ pounds ground chicken, ½ cup dried Italian bread crumbs, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Using clean hands or a fork, mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Be gentle but ensure everything is well incorporated.
Roll the mixture into either 10 large meatballs or 18 smaller ones, depending on your preference. The size can affect cooking time, so keep that in mind!

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs. Cook them until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate while you prepare the sauce.
In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Pay attention to the color; it should turn slightly golden but not burnt.
Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and stir continuously to create a paste. This will help thicken your sauce, so keep stirring until it’s well combined.

Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, add ¾ cup heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until smooth.
Next, stir in the ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, along with 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if needed. Let this simmer for a few minutes until it starts to thicken up. The aroma at this stage will make your mouth water!
Once the sauce has thickened, return the meatballs to the skillet. Spoon the sauce generously over the meatballs, making sure they’re well coated. Turn the heat to medium-low and allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes.

Finally, garnish the meatballs with ¼ cup fresh basil leaves just before serving. They can be served over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Always cook chicken meatballs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Flavor Depth: If you want to enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright note.

Serving Suggestions: Pair these meatballs with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complement the richness of the sauce.
Texture Tip: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture; it can lead to dense meatballs. Gently mix until just combined.

Variations to Try

When making the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, consider trying out some variations to keep things exciting. You can play with flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs!

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella for a gooey texture, or feta for a tangy twist.
Herb Infusion: Try fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or into the sauce.

Serving Style: Instead of pasta, serve the meatballs in homemade sub rolls for a delicious meatball sandwich.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Just thaw and cook as directed when ready to use.

Pairing: Serve these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or over a bed of spinach for a low-carb option.

What Goes Well With This Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect pairing to soak up that delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: A bright, crunchy salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the meatballs.

Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta for a comforting meal. Choose a light sauce to let the meatballs shine.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are ideal for catching the flavorful sauce, making every bite satisfying.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.

Occasions: These meatballs are fantastic for casual family dinners, date nights, or even as part of a festive holiday meal.

FAQ

The easiest way to determine if the meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of one of the meatballs; it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut one open to check if there’s no pink inside. They should be golden brown on the outside and juicy within.

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out. They can also be frozen before cooking. To do this, place uncooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to three months.

These meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or over pasta for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables also pairs wonderfully, providing a nice contrast to the richness of the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even serve them as meatball subs!

Absolutely! While the creamy sauce is a favorite, you can experiment with different flavors. Consider a marinara sauce for a classic Italian twist or a zesty barbecue sauce for something different. The meatballs themselves have great flavor, so they can adapt well to various sauces.

Conclusion

The Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are truly special due to their rich flavors and comforting textures. They bring joy to any meal and are sure to impress anyone who tries them. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; you won’t regret it! It’s perfect for both intimate dinners and family gatherings. Make it tonight, and watch as your loved ones fall in love with this delicious dish!

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a creamy, savory delight perfect for impressing your loved ones or treating yourself. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor, making it an irresistible dish. You won't want to miss out on trying this recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Grater
Mixing Bowl
Skillet
Whisk

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground chicken
½ cup dried Italian bread crumbs
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt to taste
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups chicken broth
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
¼ cup fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

In a medium-sized bowl, add 1 ½ pounds ground chicken, ½ cup dried Italian bread crumbs, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Using clean hands or a fork, mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Be gentle but ensure everything is well incorporated.

Roll the mixture into either 10 large meatballs or 18 smaller ones, depending on your preference. The size can affect cooking time, so keep that in mind!
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs. Cook them until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate while you prepare the sauce.
In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Pay attention to the color; it should turn slightly golden but not burnt.

Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and stir continuously to create a paste. This will help thicken your sauce, so keep stirring until it’s well combined.
Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, add ¾ cup heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until smooth.
Next, stir in the ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, along with 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if needed. Let this simmer for a few minutes until it starts to thicken. The aroma at this stage will make your mouth water!

Once the sauce has thickened, return the meatballs to the skillet. Spoon the sauce generously over the meatballs, making sure they’re well coated. Turn the heat to medium-low and allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes.
Finally, garnish the meatballs with ¼ cup fresh basil leaves just before serving. They can be served over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!