Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not only a delicious meal but also a fantastic option for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to fancy gatherings. Tender and juicy, these meatballs are baked to golden perfection and paired with gluten-free pasta in a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spices, and creamy sauce creates a mouth-watering dish that bursts with flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe accommodates gluten-free diets without compromising on taste or texture.
• Versatile Serve Options: Pair the meatballs with different types of pasta or even serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein and deliciousness, this dish is filling yet light enough for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you create the perfect Marry Me chicken meatballs.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients evenly without any mess.
• Baking sheet: Using a non-stick baking sheet ensures the meatballs cook evenly and don’t stick during baking.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan allows you to prepare the creamy sauce without burning it, ensuring rich flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces or mixtures gently, preventing scratches on your cookware.

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 and Sauce

• 12 oz gluten-free penne
• 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

For Creamy Sauce

• 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 that your chicken meatballs bake evenly while developing a beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground chicken, sun-dried tomato seasoning, salt, basil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, gluten-free breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs as needed.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands:
– Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5: Cook Gluten-Free Pasta

While the meatballs are baking:
– Cook gluten-free penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
– Melt butter and add minced garlic, onion, and dried shallots. Sauté until fragrant.
– Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
– Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, gluten-free flour, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil. Stir continuously until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once the meatballs are done:
– Toss baked meatballs gently in the creamy sauce along with cooked pasta and diced spinach until well coated.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm garnished with chopped basil for an extra touch of flavor! Enjoy your delightful Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me chicken meatballs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing them with the right accompaniments enhances their flavor and makes for a satisfying meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to consider.

With Gluten-Free Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over gluten-free penne for a classic Italian feel.
• Toss with olive oil and fresh herbs for added flavor.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Place the meatballs on a generous bed of fresh spinach to add a nutritious twist.
• Drizzle with sun-dried tomato oil for extra richness.

In a Creamy Sauce

• Serve the meatballs in the rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce they are cooked in.
• This adds moisture and flavor, making each bite irresistible.

As Appetizers

• Present smaller versions of the meatballs on toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Pair with marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.

In a Wrap

• Use gluten-free wraps to create delicious sandwiches filled with meatballs and fresh veggies.
• Add some arugula and sliced tomatoes for crunch.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Creating the perfect Marry Me chicken meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out tender and flavorful every time.

• Choose Quality Ground Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality ground chicken will enhance both texture and taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
• Adjust Breadcrumbs as Needed: If the mixture feels too wet, add more gluten-free breadcrumbs gradually until it holds together well.
• Bake at High Heat: Baking at 400°F ensures a nice golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure that meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Complement your Marry Me chicken meatballs with delicious side dishes that elevate your meal. These options provide balance and variety while enhancing your dining experience.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Perfectly baked breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make a great accompaniment.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil provide color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch; use gluten-free croutons if desired.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles offer a fresh alternative to pasta.
5. Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower is a low-carb option that pairs well with the sauce.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella bring vibrant flavors that complement the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Chicken Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the meat mixture consistency: If the mixture is too wet, adding extra breadcrumbs can help. A well-combined mixture forms better meatballs.
• Overcooking the meatballs: Keep an eye on cooking times; they should be golden and cooked through but not dry. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is key! Make sure to evenly mix in all spices and herbs for the best flavor in every bite.
• Not using enough sauce: A rich sauce complements the chicken meatballs perfectly. Ensure you have enough sauce to coat your pasta and meatballs generously.
• Forgetting about garnish: Fresh basil not only adds flavor but also enhances presentation. Don’t skip this step to elevate your dish visually!

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with date to track freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To prevent sticking, layer parchment paper between meatballs.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and heat until warmed through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

You can pair these meatballs with gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Can I customize the flavors in Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my chicken meatballs are tender?

Make sure not to overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to tougher meatballs. Gentle handling is key!

Are these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and customizable. Their creamy sun-dried tomato sauce paired with tender chicken makes them perfect for any dinner occasion. Try adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to make this dish truly yours!

---