Chicken Meatballs with Sauce

A quick, easy chicken meatball dish with simple sauce and rice that the whole family will like.

introduction

This recipe makes moist chicken meatballs in a tomato sauce and pairs well with rice. If you want another simple chicken dinner idea, try Greek chicken gyros with cucumber tzatziki sauce for a different flavor that is also easy to make.

why make this recipe

• It is fast and simple to prepare.
• The meatballs stay tender and cook in one pan.
• The sauce keeps the meatballs moist and adds taste.
• You can serve it with rice or pasta, so it fits many meals.

how to make Chicken Meatballs with Sauce

Make the meatball mix, shape small meatballs, brown them in a skillet, then simmer them in marinara sauce until done. Serve over rice pilaf and add fresh basil on top.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Homemade Rice Pilaf for serving

Directions :

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Serve the chicken meatballs over homemade rice pilaf and garnish with fresh basil.

how to serve Chicken Meatballs with Sauce

Serve hot over rice pilaf. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables. Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan if you like.

how to store Chicken Meatballs with Sauce

• In the fridge: cool, place in an airtight container, and store up to 3 days.
• In the freezer: place meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To reheat: warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Chicken Meatballs with Sauce

• Keep meatballs small (about 1 inch) so they cook evenly.
• Do not overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender.
• Brown the meatballs first for better flavor and texture.
• Simmer gently; too high heat can dry them out.
• Taste the sauce near the end and adjust salt or herbs if needed.

variation (if any)

• Add chopped onion or parsley to the mix for more flavor.
• Swap parmesan for mozzarella for a milder cheesy taste.
• Use a spicy marinara or add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of pan-frying if you prefer less oil.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes. Ground turkey works the same way. Cook times stay similar.

Q: How do I know the meatballs are cooked through?
A: Cut one in half to check that it is no longer pink inside, or use a meat thermometer. The internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can shape and refrigerate them for a day, or freeze them raw on a tray then transfer to a bag.

Q: Can I skip breadcrumbs?
A: You can skip them, but breadcrumbs help bind and keep meatballs tender. Use crushed crackers or oats as substitutes.

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