Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! With their juicy texture and rich flavors, they make for an irresistible dinner option that’s perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken meatballs and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce served over gluten-free pasta ensures everyone can enjoy this delightful dish. Plus, the easy preparation makes it a stress-free choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian spices gives these meatballs an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them over gluten-free pasta, with rice, or on their own as appetizers.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs keep well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a special dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Marry Me chicken meatballs.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients evenly without any mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for cooking the meatballs uniformly and helps achieve that perfect golden color.
• Whisk: Makes it easy to blend sauces and dressings smoothly.
• Saucepan: Perfect for simmering the rich sauce without spilling.

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 the 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) while you prepare your meatball mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground chicken, sun-dried tomato seasoning, salt, basil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
2. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix; this keeps your meatballs tender.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands:
– Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

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

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter and sauté garlic, onion, and shallots until fragrant.
2. Add diced sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste; stir well.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, gluten-free flour, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil. Simmer until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once everything is ready:
– Toss cooked pasta with sauce in the saucepan until well-coated. Gently add baked meatballs on top.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with chopped basil before serving warm!

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Marry Me chicken meatballs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these meatballs will impress everyone at the table.

Over Gluten-Free Pasta

• Serve the meatballs over a bed of gluten-free penne for a comforting and hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra sun-dried tomato sauce on top for added flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the meatballs with a fresh side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• The salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the meatballs.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place the chicken meatballs in a gluten-free sub roll and top with cheese for a delicious sandwich option.
• Add some spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Serve mini versions of the meatballs on toothpicks for an easy appetizer at parties.
• Accompany with dipping sauces such as marinara or garlic aioli.

With Garlic Bread

• Enjoy the meatballs with warm gluten-free garlic bread for a filling combination.
• The buttery, garlicky bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with chopped basil for an aromatic touch.
• Fresh herbs enhance both appearance and flavor, making it visually appealing.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Creating perfect Marry Me chicken meatballs is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will elevate the taste of your meatballs significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your ingredients just enough to combine them. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Adjust Breadcrumbs: If your mixture feels too wet, add more gluten-free breadcrumbs incrementally until it holds together well.
• Bake Evenly: Space out your meatballs on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam each other.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure that your chicken meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; it’s all about making it your own!

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

To complement Marry Me chicken meatballs, consider serving them alongside tasty side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and crunch while being easy to prepare.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers in olive oil, roast until tender, and serve alongside.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well from the sauce while providing a fluffy texture.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent pairing with rich sauces.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light option featuring quinoa mixed with diced veggies and lemon dressing adds freshness.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb twist, spiralize zucchini into noodles as an alternative base for your meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps while preparing Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Ignoring the ingredient measurements: Precise measurements are essential. A slight deviation can alter the flavor and texture of the meatballs.
• Forgetting to preheat the oven: A preheated oven is crucial for even cooking. Always preheat before placing your meatballs inside.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs enhance texture and flavor. Check that your breadcrumbs are fresh for optimal results.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for tender meatballs.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the meatballs to rest before baking helps them hold their shape. Don’t skip this step for better results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marry Me Chicken Meatballs special?

These meatballs are infused with sun-dried tomato seasoning, creating a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

How can I customize my Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Feel free to add herbs like parsley or oregano, or even cheese into the mixture for added flavor and richness.

What type of pasta pairs best with this dish?

Gluten-free penne is recommended, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served over gluten-free pasta or enjoyed on their own, this dish guarantees satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!

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