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 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce for a hearty dinner that feels both comforting and light. The blend of fresh herbs and spices makes each bite flavorful, while the tomato sauce adds a rich, tangy depth. It's a family favorite that I often prepare when hosting friends, and it never fails to impress. Best of all, they are quick to cook and perfect for pairing with pasta or crusty bread. Trust me, once you try these meatballs, they will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:17:36.671Z

Creating the perfect meatball can sometimes feel challenging, but through trial and error, I've mastered this Ground Chicken Meatball recipe that's both moist and packed with flavor. I discovered that incorporating breadcrumbs and egg helps achieve a tender texture while maintaining the shape. Moreover, seasoning the chicken well before cooking really enhances the overall taste.

When I serve these meatballs with homemade tomato sauce, I garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It elevates the dish and makes it restaurant-quality. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prep – just make a big batch and store some in the freezer for busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful meatballs with every bite
Homemade tomato sauce brings a fresh taste
Quick and easy recipe that suits any weeknight dinner

Understanding the Meatball Mixture

When preparing the meatball mixture, paying attention to the texture is essential. The combination of ground chicken with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese not only enhances flavor but also ensures the meatballs hold together. Using fresh breadcrumbs is preferable, as they retain moisture better than dry ones. Additionally, avoid overmixing. Mix until just combined; overworking can lead to a dense texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free version, substituting breadcrumbs with ground oats or almond flour works beautifully while retaining the meatball's integrity.

The egg in the mixture acts as a binder, giving the meatballs a light and airy structure. If you want to lower the fat content or make the dish vegan, consider using a flaxseed egg or a chia seed egg, which will help maintain the necessary binding properties. If you prefer a bit more flavor, incorporating grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach can add moisture, nutrients, and an extra layer of taste—plus, it’s a clever way to sneak more veggies into your family's diet!

Perfecting the Tomato Sauce

Homemade tomato sauce can elevate your meatballs from ordinary to extraordinary. Sautéing the onions until they are translucent and slightly caramelized brings out their natural sweetness. As you add the crushed tomatoes, let them simmer for a few minutes before adding the dried oregano and sugar. This helps to meld and deepen the flavors. I recommend tasting the sauce periodically; adjusting with a pinch more sugar or salt can boost the overall flavor profile, especially if the tomatoes taste acidic.

If you're short on time, using store-bought tomato sauce is a valid shortcut. Just enhance it with sautéed onions and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to give it that homemade touch. To add depth, consider tossing in a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar while it simmers. For those who enjoy heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a delightful kick that complements the richness of the meatballs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce:

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 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, you'll be all set to make your delicious meatballs!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce:

Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Combine and Simmer

Add the browned meatballs back to the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Once done, serve the meatballs hot with your choice of pasta or bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. Also, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance their juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Ground chicken meatballs in tomato sauce are incredibly versatile. Serve them over al dente pasta for a classic meal or alongside a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the luscious sauce. For a lower-carb option, try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, which pair beautifully with the rich sauce without adding extra calories. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can elevate the dish visually and in flavor.

If you're looking for a more complete meal, consider serving these meatballs with a crisp, fresh salad on the side. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory meatballs. Alternatively, they make a hearty filling for subs or sliders, topped with melted mozzarella for a fun twist at your next gathering.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure they are well-covered, and consider portioning them into meal-sized servings. When you're ready to enjoy them again, allow the meatballs to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then reheat in the tomato sauce over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as this can dry them out.

To bring back that just-cooked taste, you might want to pan-sear the thawed meatballs briefly in a skillet before adding them to the sauce for a few minutes. This will reintroduce a crispy edge, enhancing the overall texture and flavor. Keeping the meatballs in the sauce while reheating will help maintain their moisture, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs?

Yes, turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe!

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

You can simmer the sauce for longer or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired thickness.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Once cooked, let them cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What sides pair well with these meatballs?

These meatballs go great with spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh garden salad.