Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Imagine a dish so delicious that it could inspire a proposal. Enter Marry Me Chicken Meatballs—a culinary creation that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs with a creamy, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. The combination of ground chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even a proposal!).
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these meatballs are straightforward to whip up and are guaranteed to wow your taste buds. Let’s dive into why cooks everywhere are raving about this delightful dish!
Why Cooks Rave About It
The Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not just another meatball recipe; they are an experience. Here’s why they’ve captured the hearts (and stomachs) of so many:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Italian seasoning and garlic creates a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, these meatballs are perfect for any home cook.
- Versatile Dish: Serve them with pasta, on a bed of rice, or even on their own; the options are endless.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes adds a beautiful touch to your plate.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
What Goes In
To create your own Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup dried Italian bread crumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ 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
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the meatball ingredients.
- Spoon or Spatula: For mixing and shaping the meatballs.
- Skillet: For cooking the meatballs and preparing the sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Serving Platter: For a beautiful presentation of your finished dish.
Marry Me Chicken Meatballs — Do This Next
Now that you have everything prepped, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, dried Italian bread crumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on a plate as you go.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking for another minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, remaining grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm, and watch as everyone falls in love with your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!
Seasonal Spins
This dish is versatile enough to adapt with the seasons. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Spring: Add asparagus or peas for a fresh touch.
- Summer: Incorporate fresh tomatoes and basil for a garden-fresh flavor.
- Fall: Stir in some pumpkin or butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Add spinach or kale for a hearty addition that brings warmth.
Pro Perspective
When it comes to meatballs, consistency is key. Here are some pro tips for making your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs truly shine:
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to ensure tender meatballs.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken will elevate the flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve with Style: Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze meatballs before cooking for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey for a leaner option. The flavor will still be delicious.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them in a sub sandwich!
Are there any alternatives to heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
Desserts to Finish
No meal is complete without a sweet ending. Consider these delightful desserts to pair with your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs:
- Cranberry Meatballs Turkey – A sweet twist on a classic!
- 20 Minute Turkey Meatball Skillet With Orzo – A quick and satisfying end to your meal.
Before You Go
Now that you have all the details for making your own Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and love to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, these meatballs are bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful experience of creating this romantic dish!
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Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, dried Italian bread crumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each meatball on a plate as you go.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking for another minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, remaining grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm, and watch as everyone falls in love with your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices to customize the taste.
