Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Total Time Prep: 30 min. Cook: 25 min.
Yield 8 servings
Test Kitchen Approved
Net yourself a fiance(e) by fixing these one-pan Marry Me chicken meatballs for your true love.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 pounds ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten
  • 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • SAUCE:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup julienned oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream, warmed
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Optional: hot cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, lightly but thoroughly combine first 11 ingredients. Shape into 1-1/2 in. balls.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs; cook 2-3 minutes per side or until browned. Remove to a plate.
  3. For the sauce, add oil and butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic; cook 30-60 seconds or until fragrant. Add chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano and thyme. Simmer 1-2 minutes. Add heavy cream; simmer 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in baby spinach and 3/4 cup Parmesan; stir until spinach gently wilts, 1-2 minutes. Return meatballs back to the pan; simmer 3-4 minutes or until meatballs are heated through, spooning sauce over top.
  4. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and fresh basil. If desired, serve with pasta or side of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 412 calories, 31g fat (12g saturated fat), 162mg cholesterol, 880mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.

© 2026 RDA Enthusiast Brands, LLC