Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce

Name: Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

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I absolutely love whipping up these Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce for a comforting weeknight dinner. The process is simple, and the flavors are incredibly satisfying. The combination of juicy ground chicken mixed with herbs and spices creates the perfect meatball to nestle in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a recipe that reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, and I find myself going back for seconds every time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with pasta, crusty bread, or even on its own!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:29:36.841Z

When I first experimented with ground chicken, I was pleasantly surprised at how versatile it is for making meatballs. Unlike traditional beef or pork, ground chicken yields a lighter and juicier meatball. My secret is to incorporate a blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, which add depth to the flavor. Cooking them in a simmering tomato sauce not only enhances taste but keeps the meatballs moist.

This recipe has become a family favorite, especially paired with spaghetti or served in subs. I always make a double batch so we can enjoy leftovers the next day—perfect for meal prep!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy meatballs that are light yet filling
Flavor-packed tomato sauce with fresh herbs
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights

Techniques for Perfect Meatballs

When crafting meatballs, the texture is key. Ensuring that your mixture is well combined but not overworked will yield juicy results. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture; instead, combine your ingredients just until everything is evenly distributed. The breadcrumbs not only bind the meatballs but also absorb juices, keeping them moist during cooking. To make shaping easier, I sometimes lightly moisten my hands before forming the meatballs, which prevents the mixture from sticking.

Cooking the meatballs evenly is crucial for both flavor and safety. Aim for a medium heat and gently roll the meatballs while they cook in the skillet, allowing for browning on all sides. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pan; sticking indicates they need a little more time. A good rule of thumb is to cook them for about 6-8 minutes until they have a golden brown exterior.

The Richness of Tomato Sauce

The sauce is where the flavor truly comes to life! Using canned crushed tomatoes provides the perfect base, as they have been cooked under high heat, which enhances their natural sweetness. Adding a teaspoon of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious sauce. Fresh basil, if you have it on hand, can be substituted for dried basil to intensify the flavor; just add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its freshness.

Simmering the meatballs in the sauce not only infuses them with flavor but also keeps them juicy. I suggest covering the skillet while simmering, as this allows the meatballs to steam slightly, which helps in achieving that tender, succulent texture. Watch for a gentle bubbling, indicating the sauce is simmering correctly; adjust the heat to maintain this simmering action without boiling.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways. For a comforting classic, pair these meatballs with spaghetti and garnish with additional grated Parmesan. You can also serve them on a sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich. Don’t hesitate to complement the meal with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the sauce.

For those looking to customize, consider adding different herbs and spices to personalize the meatballs. Try incorporating a pinch of crushed red pepper for a kick or experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary. If you're preparing this in advance, the meatballs and sauce store well in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen in individual portions for later use.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined. Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Simmer Together

Carefully add the meatballs back into the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. Additionally, letting the meatballs cool before freezing can help them maintain their shape.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, transfer the meatballs and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the meatballs from drying out. You may add a splash of water or chicken broth to refresh the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

For longer storage, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, simply transfer them to a skillet with the sauce and simmer on low heat, adding a little water as necessary to help them cook through evenly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your meatballs are falling apart during cooking, the mixture might be too dry or lacking enough binding agents. Adding a little more egg or breadcrumbs can help hold them together. Alternatively, if they seem overly dry after cooking, consider introducing additional moisture in the form of sauce when serving or serve them with a side of broth-based soup.

On the other hand, if your meatballs come out too dense, this usually stems from overmixing the meat mixture. In the future, be mindful to mix just until combined, and consider using a lighter touch when shaping them. Pay attention to cooking times as well; if overcooked, meatballs can lose their desirable juiciness.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your tomato sauce, try adding minced anchovies or olives for a Mediterranean twist. These ingredients can add a depth of umami without overwhelming the other flavors. For a touch of brightness, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest before serving, which can enhance the overall dish considerably.

Consider experimenting with protein too; ground turkey or pork can be used in place of chicken for different flavor nuances. For a healthier option, explore using ground turkey mixed with chicken, giving you the low-fat benefits while retaining the texture and flavor of meatballs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook.