There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of chicken meatballs simmering in a creamy sauce, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Picture this: after a long day, you’re ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. That’s where my Marry Me Chicken Meatballs come into play! These tender, juicy meatballs are perfectly enveloped in a rich sun-dried tomato and spinach sauce, striking the ideal balance of savory and creamy flavors.
What’s even better? This dish effortlessly combines ease with elegance, making it a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can elevate your ordinary dinner routine into an unforgettable meal. So, grab your apron and let’s whip up these delicious meatballs that might just have your family asking for seconds—or, dare I say, proposing!
Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Bold, Savory Flavors: The combination of creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tender chicken meatballs creates a taste experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Crowd-Pleasing Elegance: Serve this dish to family or guests, and watch their faces light up with delight; it’s gourmet comfort food done right.
Versatile Options: Need to switch things up? Feel free to substitute ground chicken with turkey or even plant-based options for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and enjoy the ease of a delicious meal at your fingertips after a long day!
Dinner just got a major upgrade with these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs—who wouldn’t fall in love with such a delightful dish?
Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
Getting ready to indulge in these irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatballs? Here’s everything you need to make this delectable dish!
For the Meatballs
- Ground Chicken – Provides the primary protein and forms the meatballs; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor and helps bind the meatballs; feel free to use Pecorino Romano instead.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds texture and moisture to the meatballs; fresh breadcrumbs work well too.
- Egg – Acts as a binder; swap with ground flax mixed with water for a vegan alternative.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses the meatballs with delicious flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used at a 1:1 ratio.
- Dried Oregano – Enhances the herbs’ flavor; feel free to use fresh oregano or an Italian herb mix.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
For the Sauce
- Bacon – Adds a smoky richness to the sauce; can be omitted for a lighter dish.
- Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic gives pungency to the sauce; you can adjust the quantity based on your taste.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Provide concentrated sweetness and texture; fresh tomatoes can be substituted, but require longer cooking.
- Baby Spinach – Adds nutrition and color; Swiss chard or kale can be great alternatives.
- Chicken Stock – Gives flavor to the sauce; opt for vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a creamy texture; half-and-half is a lower-fat option you might consider.
- Milk – Adds extra creaminess; almond milk is a good substitute for a dairy-free version.
- Cornstarch – Used as a thickener for the sauce; arrowroot powder can be a gluten-free alternative.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance flavors; vinegar can be used as a substitute.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley – Optional garnish that enhances both presentation and flavor; other fresh herbs like chives could work too.
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating these delightful Marry Me Chicken Meatballs! Don’t forget—the love you pour into your cooking will shine through in every bite!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined. This is the foundation of your flavor-packed meatballs!
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Shape the Meatballs: Using an ice cream or cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized balls. This ensures they cook evenly and are fun to serve.
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Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them for about 5 minutes on all sides. Once browned, set them aside; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
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Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add chopped bacon and cook until crisp, around 4-5 minutes. This adds a smoky flavor to your sauce; remove and set aside the bacon.
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Sauté Aromatics: Sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in the rendered bacon fat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Then, add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, which adds vibrant color and nutrition.
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Create the Sauce: Deglaze the pan with chicken stock, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Mix the cornstarch and milk together, then add to the skillet along with the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Season the Sauce: Add fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to your sauce, adjusting the seasonings to your taste for the perfect flavor balance.
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Simmer with Meatballs: Return the meatballs to the pan and allow them to simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, or until fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve your meatballs topped with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of freshness, and enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Optional: Serve over pasta for a truly comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?
Creating a memorable dining experience extends beyond just a delicious main dish; it’s all about building a meal that delights the senses.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the rich, creamy sauce, making each bite a spoonful of comfort.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside with a soft, buttery interior, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce—adding an irresistible crunch.
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Steamed Asparagus: The fresh, bright flavor of lightly steamed asparagus adds a lovely crunch and color, balancing the richness of the meatballs and sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy meatballs—ideal for that hearty yet light meal.
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Pasta: A bed of spaghetti or fettuccine complements the meatballs beautifully, allowing for an Italian-inspired feast that’s sure to impress.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and sweetness; their charred flavor contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce, ensuring an array of tastes.
Pair these delightful suggestions with your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs to create a meal that feels both special and heartwarming, inviting loved ones to savor every moment together!
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground chicken, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings before forming them into balls. Simply refrigerate the uncooked meatballs in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them. Additionally, you can make the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge; just reheat it gently before adding the browned meatballs. To maintain quality and ensure they remain just as delicious, it’s best to cook the meatballs fresh, absorbing the savory flavors from the sauce, for a stress-free dinner that feels gourmet!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
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Don’t Overmix: Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture, as this keeps them tender and light. Mix until just combined.
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Proper Browning: Brown the meatballs well for added flavor, but remember they don’t need to cook through; they’ll finish in the sauce.
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: Vary the amount of cornstarch according to your preference for sauce thickness; start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
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Substitutions Matter: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or cheeses; ground chicken can be swapped for turkey, or try using feta for a unique flavor twist.
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Fresh Herbs Shine: Adding fresh basil or parsley enhances flavor and presentation; don’t skip this step to elevate your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy sauce covers them to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze meatballs (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to airtight containers for up to 3 months. This keeps them from sticking together.
Reheating: Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to the sauce for a fresh taste.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before cooking. Just remember to keep them well-sealed!
Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Variations
Customize your culinary creation and make these meatballs truly your own with delightful twists!
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Turkey Substitute: Replace ground chicken with ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce. This little addition can bring warmth and excitement to each bite.
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Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta or mozzarella can bring unique flavor profiles and melt beautifully in the sauce.
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Vegan Twist: Swap out the meat and cheese for plant-based alternatives and use almond milk, creating a delicious vegan version everyone will love!
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Herb Infusion: Replace dried oregano with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant flavor boost that livens up the dish.
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Creaminess Upgrade: Use ricotta cheese instead of cream for a delightful, rich texture that also adds a slightly sweet note to the sauce.
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Veggie-Filled: Toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers when sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. These veggies lend extra nutrition and vibrant color to your dish!
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Citrus Zest: Brighten up the sauce with a touch of grated lemon zest. It adds a fresh, zippy flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the cream.
Dive into these variations and have fun crafting your ideal version of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!
Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What type of ground chicken should I use?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is the star of this recipe, but feel free to switch it up for a lighter option like ground turkey. For a more plant-based approach, you can also use ground chicken substitutes available in stores.
How should I store leftover meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure that the creamy sauce covers them completely to maintain their moisture and flavor. Just reheat gently before serving!
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?
Yes! To freeze, place the meatballs (without sauce) on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce gets too thick while cooking, simply add a splash of chicken stock or cream to thin it out. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency; this way, you stay in control of the creaminess.
Are these meatballs suitable for pets?
While the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are delicious for humans, remember that ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets. Always check which ingredients are safe before sharing any leftovers with your furry friends.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and form the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before you plan to cook. This method makes it super easy to serve a delicious meal after a busy day!
Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Using an ice cream or cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized balls.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them for about 5 minutes on all sides.
- In the same skillet, add chopped bacon and cook until crisp, around 4-5 minutes.
- Sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in the rendered bacon fat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Then, add the baby spinach and cook until wilted.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken stock, then mix the cornstarch and milk together and add to the skillet along with the heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
- Add fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the sauce, adjusting seasonings to taste.
- Return the meatballs to the pan and allow them to simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve your meatballs topped with fresh basil or parsley.