Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe

These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are juicy, tender meatballs smothered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Inspired by the viral Marry Me Chicken recipe, this dish is so flavorful and comforting that everyone who tries it will fall in love at first bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even meal prep, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender meatballs with tons of flavor
• A creamy, savory sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs
• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for pasta, rice, or served with crusty bread
• Family-friendly and great for meal prep

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Directions

1. Make the meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
   • Form into 1½-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop.
2. Cook the meatballs:
   • 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 from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
   • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
   • Add red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine and simmer:
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to absorb the sauce and finish cooking.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

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Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella to the sauce for extra cheesiness.

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Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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FAQs

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

The name comes from the idea that this dish is so good it could inspire a marriage proposal! It’s creamy, flavorful, and universally loved.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

Yes, just drain off excess oil before using, or use the oil for extra flavor when cooking the garlic.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet—add extra breadcrumbs if needed and avoid over-mixing the meat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

What type of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! Skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour instead, and serve with low-carb sides.

How long will the sauce stay creamy?

The sauce will stay creamy when reheated gently. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

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Conclusion

These Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a luxurious sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s packed with irresistible flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic date night or just craving comfort food, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds—maybe even a proposal!

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