Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce

Name: Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Love

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce! It's a dish that not only fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma but also brings joy to the dinner table. The process is straightforward and rewarding. As I mix the ground chicken with herbs and spices, I can already imagine the delicious flavors melding together as they simmer in the rich tomato sauce. Whether you're cooking for family or a quiet night in, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:13:37.889Z

When I first tried making Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce, I was amazed at how juicy and flavorful they turned out. The secret lies in not overmixing the meat, which keeps the meatballs tender while ensuring they hold their shape. I love adding fresh herbs like basil and parsley, which lend a garden-fresh flavor that really elevates the dish.

Another tip I discovered is browning the meatballs before simmering them in the sauce. This step adds a depth of flavor that transforms an ordinary meal into something special. The combination of the rich tomato sauce and wonderfully seasoned chicken makes this recipe a go-to in our home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and tender meatballs infused with fresh herbs
Rich and flavorful tomato sauce that complements the chicken perfectly
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

Choosing the Right Ground Chicken

When making meatballs, the quality of ground chicken can significantly affect the final texture and flavor. Opt for ground chicken with a bit of fat content, as this will keep the meatballs juicy during cooking. If you can, look for organic or free-range options; they often have a better taste. Avoid overly lean ground chicken, as it may lead to dry meatballs that lack the mouthfeel we desire.

It’s also worth noting that grinding your chicken at home can result in a fresher flavor. If you have a food processor, you can pulse whole chicken breasts or thighs until finely chopped. This allows you to control the fat content and ensure your meatballs are succulent.

Perfecting Your Sauce

The sauce is essential for unifying the flavors of the meatballs. Using canned crushed tomatoes saves time and offers consistent quality, but you can elevate the dish further by adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to deepen the sauce’s complexity. If time allows, simmering the sauce longer—up to an hour—develops richer flavors, so consider preparing it ahead of time if you can.

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving. This not only adds a luscious finish but also balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. I like to garnish the dish with extra parsley for a fresh contrast before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine everything and let the flavors meld!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious meatballs in tomato sauce:

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer Together

Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce over pasta or on their own!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Storage and Reheating

Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are great for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to keep them moist. Microwave reheating is possible but can dry them out if not cared for, so if you go that route, cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce together in freezer-safe containers. They can be kept for up to three months. To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal on busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine on their own, but pairing them with a side of spaghetti, polenta, or crusty bread creates a more substantial meal. If you're looking for lighter options, serve them over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or brown rice for a healthier twist. I also love adding a side salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

For a fun presentation, consider serving the meatballs in a toasted sub roll with melted mozzarella on top, transforming them into delicious meatball sandwiches. This is a fun twist that’s also great for gatherings or family meals!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a similar texture and flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the raw or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with spaghetti, in subs, or on their own with a side salad.