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: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Ideas

I've always been a fan of meatballs, and making them with ground chicken has become my favorite twist on the classic dish. The lightness of the chicken pairs beautifully with a rich tomato sauce, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. I love how easy it is to prepare, and the flavors get even better as they meld together. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are a delightful and comforting meal that I can whip up in under an hour.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:56:49.212Z

After experimenting with various kinds of meatballs, I decided to try ground chicken for its lean quality and wonderful flavor. The tender texture of the chicken combined with the savory herbs and spices resulted in an irresistible meatball. I also discovered that browning them before simmering in sauce really enhances the flavor, creating a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Each time I serve these meatballs, I remind myself to be generous with the sauce as it truly makes the dish complete. I often sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving, which adds a pop of freshness and elevates the overall experience. It's a dish that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs

Lean yet flavorful chicken combines perfectly with hearty tomato sauce
Customizable recipe that allows for adding your favorite herbs and spices
Ideal for meal prep and tastes great reheated

Mastering Chicken Meatballs

When working with ground chicken, the key is to keep the mixture moist and flavorful without being overly dense. The breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan in this recipe not only provide structure but also help absorb any liquid during cooking, ensuring your meatballs remain juicy. If you notice the mixture feels too loose, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs or even a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency. Mixing the ingredients just until combined will also prevent the meatballs from becoming tough.

For a subtly different flavor profile, consider swapping the Italian seasoning with herbs like thyme or fresh parsley based on your preference. Additionally, incorporating finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini could add a nutritious twist while maintaining moisture. My personal favorite is adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

The Perfect Tomato Sauce

The tomato sauce is where the depth of flavor really comes into play. Using a quality can of crushed tomatoes is crucial; it will serve as the base and is worth investing in. Look for varieties that are organic and free from added sugars or preservatives. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they're just translucent, rather than browned, ensures that they develop sweetness without bitterness. This will contribute to a well-rounded sauce that enhances the meatballs perfectly.

Once the sauce is simmering, don’t rush the process. Allowing it to simmer for 15-20 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully, which is essential for a rich taste. If the sauce begins to thicken too much, a splash of chicken broth or water can help adjust the consistency. Also, tasting as you go allows you to balance the salt and acidity, creating a sauce that brings out the best in both the meatballs and the overall dish.

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 onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

Carefully add the browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the meatballs over pasta, with crusty bread, or on their own. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding chopped parsley or oregano to your meatball mixture. You can also use ground turkey as a substitute for ground chicken if preferred.

Storing and Reheating Meatballs

These meatballs are excellent for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you're looking to prepare in advance, cook the meatballs but reserve simmering them in the sauce until you're ready to serve. This method maintains their texture beautifully. For even longer storage, meatballs can be frozen individually or in sauce for up to three months. Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

When reheating, the oven is my preferred method as it helps retain the meatball's texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the meatballs in a baking dish, and cover with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 20 minutes, until they are warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or increase your heating time to 30-35 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

While serving these meatballs over pasta is a classic choice, don't hesitate to get creative. They pair beautifully with zoodles for a low-carb option or can be nestled in a fresh hoagie roll for a satisfying sandwich. If you're entertaining, consider serving the meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks, alongside a side of the rich tomato sauce for dipping. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for an eye-catching presentation.

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding kalamata olives or feta cheese to the tomato sauce, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. You can also swap out the ground chicken with turkey or even lean beef, which will change the taste profile slightly but still yield delicious results. Experimenting with different herbs or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can take these meatballs to the next level!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked meatballs or cooked ones. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are great served with pasta, rice, or even in a sub sandwich. A side salad also complements the dish well.

→ How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

You can check if the meatballs are cooked through by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. They can also be made and stored for 2-3 days.