Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors, making them perfect for any occasion—from a casual family dinner to a romantic date night. Baked to a golden brown and served with gluten-free pasta in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests or loved ones. The unique blend of seasonings and the creamy texture of the sauce make these meatballs irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Flavor-Packed: With ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and smoked paprika, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve with gluten-free pasta or over rice for a satisfying meal that suits various dietary needs.
• Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender meatballs provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or dinner parties, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large pot (for pasta)
• Skillet

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking of the meatballs while keeping them from sticking.
• Large pot: Perfect for cooking pasta efficiently, ensuring it cooks evenly.

Ingredients

These Marry Me chicken meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They’re baked to golden perfection and then served with gluten-free pasta in a rich, creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. The perfect dinner!

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb Ground Chicken
• 1 tsp sun-dried tomato seasoning
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp basil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (1 – 2 tbsp more if the mixture is too wet)
• 1 egg (large, lightly beaten)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz gluten-free penne

For the Sauce:

• 2 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
• 1 1/2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
• 2 cups spinach (diced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp onion (minced)
• 2 tbsp dried shallots
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbsp gluten-free flour
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/3 tsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp basil
• Chopped basil (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your meatballs cook evenly and become beautifully golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients:
1. Add ground chicken, sun-dried tomato seasoning, salt, basil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
2. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatballs

Use your hands to form small balls from the mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While meatballs are baking:
– In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook gluten-free penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat:
– Melt butter and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
– Stir in dried shallots and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
– Add chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil. Stir until combined.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the sauce thickens slightly:
– Add cooked penne and baked meatballs into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Plate your Marry Me Chicken Meatballs topped with shredded parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me chicken meatballs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up, there are plenty of options to make your meal special.

With Gluten-Free Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over gluten-free penne for a classic Italian experience. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta and adds richness.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a gluten-free sub roll, topped with extra sauce and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich option that’s perfect for lunch.

Over a Bed of Spinach

• For a lighter option, serve the meatballs on a bed of sautéed spinach. This adds freshness and color while keeping the dish healthy.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair the meatballs with a crisp garden salad. A simple vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the meatballs and sauce.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your meatballs with chopped basil for an added burst of flavor and color. This elevates the presentation and taste.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Creating perfect Marry Me chicken meatballs is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor. Opt for fresh garlic and basil whenever possible.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust Breadcrumbs: If your mixture feels too wet, add more gluten-free breadcrumbs gradually until you achieve the right consistency.
• Bake for Even Cooking: Baking ensures even cooking without drying out the meatballs. Use parchment paper on your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Pairing sides with your Marry Me chicken meatballs can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side, garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly while adding crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and color to your plate, balancing out the richness of the dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm meatballs.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed lightly in olive oil as an alternative to pasta.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant green color and health benefits while being easy to prepare.
6. Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower provides a comforting side that pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken meatballs.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting starter that complements Italian cuisine beautifully.
8. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs and cherry tomatoes offers a flavorful addition that’s also easy to make ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the meat mixture can lead to bland meatballs. Always use the recommended spices for a flavor boost.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine the ingredients gently until just combined.
• Ignoring meatball size: Making unevenly sized meatballs can cause inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform sizes for even baking.
• Not preheating the oven: Placing meatballs in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven for best results.
• Using too much moisture: Adding excess liquid can make meatballs soggy. Adjust breadcrumbs based on the mixture’s wetness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Marry Me Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• To freeze, place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Meatballs special?

These meatballs are packed with flavor from seasonings and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a rich taste that’s irresistible.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works well and will provide a similar texture while being lower in fat.

How do I customize my Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Feel free to add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any non-dairy cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not only appealing due to their tender texture and rich flavors but also versatile enough for various dietary needs. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or sides, making it an excellent choice for any dinner occasion!

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