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

Uitgelicht onder: Wereldse Favorieten

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!

Gemaakt door

Selene Woodward

Laatst bijgewerkt op 2026-03-05T21:54:37.978Z

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

Ingrediënten

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

Bereidingswijze

Cooking Steps

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.

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

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

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

Enjoy your meal!

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.

Vragen Over Recepten

→ 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.