Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce

Name: Ground Chicken Meatballs In Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cups crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I absolutely love making these ground chicken meatballs in tomato sauce for a comforting weeknight meal. They're incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The blend of herbs and spices combined with the juicy chicken makes them a hit with the whole family. Each bite is tender and bursting with the rich tomato sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta or even on its own. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for meal prep options, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:25:37.988Z

When I first decided to try making meatballs with ground chicken, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. To my delight, they ended up being incredibly moist and flavorful thanks to the combination of spices and the simmering tomato sauce. I highly recommend mixing the meatball ingredients by hand; it really helps meld the flavors together for a delicious result.

Another tip I've learned is to let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps them absorb the sauce's flavor and makes them even tastier! Plus, they are perfect for leftovers, making great sandwiches the next day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavorful blend of herbs and spices in every bite
Perfectly tender meatballs that stay juicy
Versatile for pasta, subs, or as a protein-packed snack

Ingredient Insights

The combination of ground chicken and breadcrumbs is essential for achieving tender meatballs. Ground chicken offers a lighter flavor compared to beef or pork, while breadcrumbs act as a binding agent, preventing the meatballs from becoming too dense. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. This slight tweak maintains the texture while accommodating dietary preferences.

Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor of the meatballs but also introduces a bit of richness. Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best impact; its flavor is much more intense than pre-packaged versions. You can also swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper taste, or try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free variant that adds a similar umami punch.

Cooking Techniques

When frying the meatballs, be mindful of the heat level. Medium heat helps to achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning them. If you notice they're cooking too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Perfect meatballs will keep their shape and surface, appearing golden with juicy interiors, typically taking about 10 minutes to cook through. Use a non-stick skillet or cast iron for even heating and easier handling.

While simmering the meatballs in the tomato sauce, the key is patience. Letting them sit in the sauce for the full 10 minutes will not only enhance their flavor but also ensure they absorb the rich tomato essence. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth, which will also help in creating a luscious texture throughout.

Serving Suggestions

These ground chicken meatballs shine when served over a bed of pasta. Consider using spaghetti or whole grain options to complement the sauce and protein-rich meatballs. Alternatively, for a lower-carb meal, serve them on a nest of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without the extra carbs.

If you want to make the meal more festive, create meatball subs using toasted hoagie rolls. Layer the meatballs and sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese, and broil until bubbly. This variation is excellent for entertaining, providing a satisfying, easy-to-eat dish perfect for gatherings!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 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 crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. After cooking, simply cool them to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, reheat them gently in the tomato sauce over low heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the flavors in your meatballs. Adding finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots can boost nutrition and add moisture. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture from them to keep the meatballs from being soggy. You can also experiment with different herbs; adding fresh basil, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.

Switching up the sauce is another option. While a classic tomato sauce is delightful, consider trying a roasted red pepper sauce or a creamy Alfredo for a twist. The flavors of the meatballs will adapt well to different sauces, allowing for variety each time you make this dish.

Troubleshooting

If your meatballs tend to fall apart during cooking, it might be due to a lack of binding from breadcrumbs or egg. Make sure to measure your breadcrumbs accurately, and consider adding a bit more if needed, or use two eggs instead of one. This should help them hold together better during cooking.

If the meatballs end up dry, there are a couple of reasons this can happen. Overcooking is one culprit; aim for a total cooking time of about 20 minutes. Alternatively, ensure you're using ground chicken with enough fat content. If you find leaner versions, you might want to add a bit of olive oil or minced onion to the mixture for added moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lean turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, lean turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They are delicious over spaghetti, in hoagie rolls, or served with a side of garlic bread!