Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe, featuring juicy, tender meatballs cooked in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This dish is flavorful, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and parmesan
• Creamy, indulgent sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta or rice
• Easy to prepare and ready in under an hour
• Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests
• A unique and satisfying take on a classic recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chicken
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic (minced)
• Italian seasoning
• Egg
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Fresh basil (chopped)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until golden on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them cook in the sauce for 5-7 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or beef for chicken
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option
• Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
• Freeze cooked meatballs (without the sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before adding to freshly made sauce.

FAQs

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure the meat mixture is well-combined and avoid over-mixing, as that can make the meatballs too soft.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but will provide a different texture and less intense flavor.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

What sides go well with Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables complement the dish beautifully.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less creamy.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked meatballs?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since they only need to be heated through.

What herbs can I use if I don’t have basil?

Parsley or thyme are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of rich, creamy flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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