Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Sauce

“Try these tender, juicy Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Sauce, a delicious and easy dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights! Made with ground chicken, cooked rice, and warm spices, these flavorful meatballs are simmered in a rich, buttery cream sauce. Serve them with pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a comforting, family-friendly meal. Learn tips for moist meatballs, gluten-free substitutions, and how to make this dish ahead of time!”

These Chicken Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and coated in a rich, creamy sauce. Made with ground chicken, rice, and warm spices, this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve them with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a side of vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated onion
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons light olive oil (for frying)
• Flour for dredging

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooked rice, egg, grated onion, dried parsley, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until fully combined.
2. Shape and Dredge the Meatballs:
   Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Lightly dredge each meatball in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   Add the heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
5. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
   Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle the meatballs with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

---

Tips

• Moist Meatballs: The grated onion and cooked rice help keep the meatballs moist and tender.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the meatball ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
• Even Cooking: Make sure the meatballs are of uniform size to ensure even cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or pork for a different flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for dredging and thickening the sauce.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired heat level, or omit them for a milder sauce.
• Herbs: Swap dried parsley for fresh parsley, thyme, or cilantro for a flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes! Bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs and creamy sauce over spaghetti, fettuccine, or egg noodles.
• With Potatoes: Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes for a hearty meal.
• On Rice: Serve over steamed white rice or fluffy basmati rice for a simple and delicious dinner.
• Vegetable Side: Add a side of sautéed spinach, green beans, or roasted broccoli for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour.
• Comforting and Delicious: The creamy sauce and tender meatballs make this dish a cozy family favorite.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or served as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Enjoy these Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite! 🍽️🍗