The aroma of chicken meatballs sizzling on the stove can turn the most mundane day into a delightful culinary adventure. Picture this: juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs seasoned to perfection, dancing in a rich tomato sauce, and served over a bed of spaghetti. It’s comfort food at its finest that will make your taste buds sing!
Every time I whip up this chicken meatball recipe, it takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom would prepare her famous meatballs for family gatherings. The laughter, the chatter, and the mouth-watering smells filled the air. It’s not just dinner; it’s a warm hug from the past that brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken meatball recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and fun
- You can easily switch up the spices for a personal touch
- Their golden-brown color and juicy texture make them a feast for both eyes and stomach
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!
I remember one Thanksgiving when my brother took a bite of these meatballs and exclaimed they were “life-changing.” Who knew chicken could bring such joy?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs; they help bind everything together while adding texture.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives a savory depth that pre-packaged versions just can’t match.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely, parsley adds freshness to balance the richness of the meatballs.
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Eggs: One large egg serves as an excellent binder to hold all ingredients together.
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Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors of your ingredients.
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Olive Oil: For cooking your meatballs until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Your Favorite Sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, choose a sauce you love to complement those glorious meatballs!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Mixing Up the Magic: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until well blended; think of it as a therapeutic dough session.
Shaping Meatballs Like a Pro: With slightly damp hands, roll about 1-2 tablespoons of mixture into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; they should resemble tiny edible snowmen ready for action.
Cooking Time Fun!: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add meatballs carefully and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown all over; enjoy that satisfying sizzle!
Simmering in Sauce Heaven: Once browned, transfer those glorious meatballs into your favorite sauce. Let them simmer gently for 15 minutes while absorbing all those saucy flavors—your kitchen will smell divine!
Pasta Perfection!: While your meatballs simmer away happily in their sauce bath, prepare some pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with olive oil or serve directly with sauce topped over.
Enjoy serving them hot with crusty bread or simply on their own—the options are limitless!
Now you’ve successfully created an irresistible chicken meatball recipe that’s sure to be loved by everyone at your table!
You Must Know
- This delightful chicken meatball recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- The savory aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, the juicy texture and flavor make these meatballs a hit at any gathering, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a hungry family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your ingredients, then shape the meatballs before you heat up the pan. Sear them until golden brown for that mouthwatering crust. While they cook, prepare your sauce—multitasking makes everything smoother!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground chicken with turkey or add in some spinach for a nutrient boost. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs to create flavor profiles that suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through without losing their juicy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let your ground chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing
- This helps meld the ingredients nicely
- Ensure you don’t overmix; it can lead to dense meatballs instead of tender ones
- A splash of milk adds moisture and keeps them soft!
In my early cooking days, I mistakenly thought meatballs could only be made with beef. After trying this chicken version at a potluck, I was amazed by how much people loved them! They disappeared faster than I could say “seconds,” and now they’re a staple at my gatherings.
FAQ
Can I freeze chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a bag.
What sauce pairs well with chicken meatballs?
A classic marinara or a tangy barbecue sauce adds fantastic flavor to chicken meatballs.
How do I know when my meatballs are fully cooked?
Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer for safety.
Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade chicken meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce and served over spaghetti. This recipe brings back cherished memories while delivering a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. With juicy ground chicken, fresh herbs, and a touch of cheese, these meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Experience the joy of cooking as you create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Your favorite sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well by hand until fully blended.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 tablespoons each, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the meatballs into your favorite sauce and simmer for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- While simmering, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and serve with meatballs and sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (about 180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
