Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatballs You’ll Love to Make

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a delightful fusion of savory ground chicken, fragrant Italian spices, and a creamy tomato-based sauce that will have your family begging for more. This comforting and versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or impressing guests with its impressive flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible Marry Me Chicken Meatballs that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

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The Origins and Appeal of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

The term “Marry Me Chicken” has become a popular moniker for a rich and creamy chicken dish that has taken the internet by storm. While the exact origins of this recipe are uncertain, the alluring combination of tender chicken, a luxurious sauce, and comforting flavors have made it a beloved staple in many households. In the case of these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, the ground chicken is formed into delectable morsels and simmered in a silky tomato cream sauce, creating a dish that is both indulgent and utterly irresistible.

Comfort food recipes like Marry Me Chicken Meatballs hold a special place in the hearts of many, as they evoke feelings of nostalgia, warmth, and satisfaction. The ability to bring family and friends together around the dinner table with a dish that is both delicious and visually appealing is a true testament to the power of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re serving Marry Me Chicken Meatballs over a bed of pasta, spooning them over creamy mashed potatoes, or enjoying them with a side of crusty bread, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Ingredients for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

To create these flavorful and tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, you’ll need a simple list of ingredients that come together to form a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Let’s take a closer look at the key components:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for browning meatballs)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

The key ingredients that make these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs so irresistible are the combination of ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and the rich, creamy tomato sauce. The addition of fragrant garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning help to elevate the overall flavor profile, while the fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Creating these delectable Marry Me Chicken Meatballs is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these easy steps to bring this comforting dish to life:

Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Shape the Meatballs

Roll the meatball mixture into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are uniform in size.

Brown the Meatballs

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches if necessary, brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the Cream and Herbs

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option), fresh basil, and fresh parsley. Mix well to combine.

Simmer the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.</

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair them with your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

To ensure your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Selecting the Right Ground Chicken

When it comes to ground chicken, opt for a blend that includes both dark and white meat. This will result in meatballs that are juicy and flavorful, rather than dry and dense.

Avoid Overmixing the Meatball Mixture

Be gentle when combining the meatball ingredients, as overmixing can lead to tough, rubbery meatballs. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.

Achieve the Perfect Browning

Be sure to heat the oil in the skillet until it’s hot before adding the meatballs. This will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the interior moist and tender.

Test for Doneness

To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut one of the larger meatballs in half to check that it’s no longer pink in the center.

Creative Variations and Customizations

While the classic Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are undoubtedly delicious, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add a Spicy Kick

For those who love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture or the sauce.

Switch Up the Breadcrumbs

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even almond flour.

Boost the Nutrition

Finely grated zucchini or carrots can be added to the meatball mixture for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Experiment with Garnishes

Elevate the presentation of your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs by garnishing them with extra grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves
• Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

Frequently Asked Questions

What to do with Marry Me Chicken?

Marry Me Chicken, or the chicken dish that inspired these meatballs, is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The tender, creamy chicken can be served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

What is the difference between Tuscan chicken and Marry Me Chicken?

While both Tuscan chicken and Marry Me Chicken feature a creamy, tomato-based sauce, the main difference lies in the protein used. Tuscan chicken typically features boneless, skinless chicken breasts, whereas Marry Me Chicken uses ground chicken to create meatballs. Additionally, Marry Me Chicken often includes Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese, which add to the distinct flavor profile.

What is the sauce on Marry Me Chicken?

The sauce for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs is a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. It’s made by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then adding crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The sauce is then finished with heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option) and fresh herbs like basil and parsley.

How do you keep chicken meatballs from falling apart?

There are a few key tips to help keep your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs from falling apart:

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined to avoid tough, dense meatballs.
• Use the right ratio of breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and prevent them from falling apart. Be sure to use the recommended 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs in the recipe.
• Brown the meatballs before simmering. Browning the meatballs in oil before adding them to the sauce helps create a sturdy exterior that holds its shape.
• Let the meatballs simmer gently. Simmering the meatballs in the sauce for 15-20 minutes allows them to cook through fully without breaking down.

Enjoy the Irresistible Comfort of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

With their tender texture, savory flavors, and luxurious creamy sauce, these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you serve them over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread, this dish is guaranteed to impress and delight. So gather your loved ones, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with this irresistible recipe. Bon appétit!

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