Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, making them perfect for any dinner occasion. These meatballs are not only tender and juicy but also bursting with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and spices. The creamy sauce and gluten-free pasta elevate this meal, making it an impressive choice for family dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve these meatballs with gluten-free pasta or over a bed of greens for a low-carb option, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests.
• Kid-Friendly: The tasty flavors and fun shape make these meatballs a hit with kids, encouraging them to enjoy their veggies too.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare Marry Me Chicken Meatballs.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Cooking pot
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all the ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for evenly baking the meatballs, ensuring they come out golden brown.
• Cooking pot: Ideal for preparing your gluten-free pasta and creamy sauce simultaneously.
• Whisk: Useful for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when making sauces.

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). This ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ground chicken, sun-dried tomato seasoning, salt, basil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, gluten-free breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
2. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

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

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

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

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile:
* Cook the gluten-free penne according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large pot:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and dried shallots; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, diced sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, parmesan cheese, flour, Italian seasoning, sweet smoked paprika, salt, and basil.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once both components are ready:
* Add the baked meatballs to the sauce.
* Toss in cooked penne until well coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

These Marry Me chicken meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Gluten-Free Pasta

• Serve the meatballs atop gluten-free penne tossed in the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce for a comforting pasta dish.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm, gluten-free garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the tender meatballs.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Present the meatballs on a fresh bed of spinach for a lighter option, adding some extra nutrients to your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller meatballs on toothpicks with a side of dipping sauce for an elegant appetizer at parties.

In a Salad

• Slice the meatballs and add them to a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a hearty meal.

With Zucchini Noodles

• For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over spiralized zucchini noodles, drizzled with the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

To ensure your Marry Me chicken meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken will enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender; overmixing can make them tough.
• Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too wet, add more gluten-free breadcrumbs until you achieve the right firmness.
• Bake Evenly: Ensure your oven is preheated and use parchment paper on your baking sheet for even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) 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

Complementing your Marry Me chicken meatballs with side dishes enhances both flavor and presentation. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A nutritious side that adds color and balances out the richness of the meatballs.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds great texture and flavor.
3. Cauliflower Rice
   A lighter alternative to traditional rice, flavored with herbs or spices for added taste.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with diced veggies provides protein and healthy carbohydrates.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting accompaniment that pairs well with the sauce.
6. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a light yet flavorful side dish.
7. Crispy Green Beans
   Lightly seasoned green beans baked until crispy offer a satisfying crunch alongside the tender meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience with Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overmixing the meatballs: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients just until blended for a tender texture.
• Skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them moist. Always include them in your recipe for the best results.
• Not measuring spices accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off flavor balance. Use measuring spoons for precision to ensure a delicious outcome.
• Using low-quality chicken: The quality of ground chicken impacts flavor and texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best meatballs.
• Cooking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too high or low of a temperature can affect cooking time and doneness. Follow the recommended temperature closely for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Marry Me Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store them properly.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

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 and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are deliciously seasoned ground chicken meatballs served with pasta in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, perfect for dinner.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use lean beef or turkey as alternatives if you prefer something different than chicken.

How do I customize Marry Me Chicken Meatballs?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, or incorporate vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers into the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with gluten-free pasta, but you can also serve them over rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately, then combine and heat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or side dishes to suit your taste. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!