Introduction
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs are tender, juicy, and loaded with bold flavor. Made from lean chicken, infused with garlic, and coated in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, these meatballs are a family-friendly dinner or appetizer that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for weeknights, parties, or meal prep.
Origin
Chicken meatballs are a modern adaptation of traditional Italian-style meatballs, offering a lighter alternative to beef or pork. Adding a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the dish, blending Italian comfort food techniques with a rich, indulgent flavor profile.
Cultural Significance
Meatballs are a universal comfort food, appearing in Italian, Swedish, and American cuisines. Creamy Parmesan sauces are a hallmark of Italian-American cooking, making this dish a fusion of lean protein and indulgent flavor that resonates with home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients and Quantities
Chicken Meatballs (Makes 20–24 meatballs)
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground chicken for healthier meatballs without compromising flavor
- Chill meatballs 10–15 minutes before cooking to hold shape
- Brown meatballs in a skillet for extra flavor before adding sauce
- Stir sauce gently to prevent curdling of cream
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture
Instructions
Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Form mixture into 1½-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides for 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Return meatballs to skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer 5–7 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and sauce thickens.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Description
These creamy garlic Parmesan chicken meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a luscious, savory sauce. The garlic and Parmesan create a rich, flavorful coating that enhances the delicate chicken meat, making every bite irresistible. Perfect over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, they are a versatile comfort dish.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per 3 meatballs with sauce)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
Values vary based on cream, cheese, and portion size.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs are an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that works for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep. Juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and a rich Parmesan sauce combine to create a dish that feels indulgent while being simple to prepare.
Recommendation
Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or steamed rice for a complete meal. Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
- Use lean ground chicken to reduce saturated fat
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce
- Add vegetables to the sauce for extra fiber and nutrients
- Control portion sizes for a balanced indulgent meal
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