Name: Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a rich and savory dish featuring tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a velvety, cheesy sauce. Bursting with Italian-inspired flavor, this satisfying meal is easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy dinner, and elegant enough to serve for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a comforting blend of lean protein and creamy indulgence. The chicken meatballs are light yet flavorful, and the parmesan cream sauce brings a luscious depth that complements them perfectly. This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s also simple enough for busy weeknights while still delivering gourmet taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground chicken
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Garlic (minced)
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Additional grated parmesan
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Cook until fragrant, then deglaze the pan with chicken broth.
Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.
Return the meatballs to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and simmer gently for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Total time required is approximately 35 minutes, including 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or meatball mix.
Low-carb option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
Herbaceous twist: Mix fresh basil or thyme into the meatballs or sauce.
Cheese lovers’ version: Add mozzarella or fontina to the sauce for extra richness.
Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast in place of cream and parmesan.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened. For longer storage, freeze meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a suitable alternative and works just as well in this recipe.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed vegetables, or rice are excellent accompaniments.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes until golden and cooked through.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer longer, or stir in a small cornstarch slurry.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, both the meatballs and sauce can be made ahead and stored separately.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.

What kind of parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use ground chicken with a bit of fat for moisture.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, freeze them cooked or uncooked. Thaw before reheating or cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s kid-friendly and can be made without added spice.

Conclusion

Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. With its tender meatballs and rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that delivers flavor and warmth in every bite. Simple to prepare and easily customizable, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and savory dish made with tender, seasoned chicken meatballs simmered in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect served over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Form into small meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Return meatballs to skillet and spoon sauce over them. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until everything is heated through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.