Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs are the kind of dish that turns a regular weeknight dinner into something memorable. Picture juicy, golden-brown chicken meatballs simmered in a dreamy, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce bursting with herbs and a hint of spice. This recipe is a spin-off of the viral “Marry Me Chicken,” but with the coziness and convenience of meatballs.

Whether you’re trying to impress someone or just need a comfort meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated, this recipe checks all the boxes. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up that sauce. It’s one of those meals where people will ask for seconds before they finish the first plate.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Meatballs?

Ground chicken is the easiest route for this recipe. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and absorbs flavor beautifully. Look for ground chicken that includes both breast and thigh meat for the best balance of moisture and taste. If you’re grinding it yourself or having a butcher do it, aim for an 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio.

Ingredients for the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Ground Chicken: The star of the dish, it creates juicy meatballs that pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty depth to both the meatballs and the sauce.
Egg: Holds the meatballs together while cooking.
Garlic: A flavor essential for both the meatballs and the sauce.
Italian Seasoning: Brings out the herbaceous flavor in the dish.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but it adds a lovely touch of heat.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Intensely sweet and tangy, these bring boldness to the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, making it rich and indulgent.
Chicken Broth: Balances the cream with a savory, umami depth.
Fresh Basil: Brightens up the sauce and adds an aromatic finish.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the meatballs and start the flavor base for the sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork it. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Sear them until golden brown on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to deepen their flavor.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce slightly, then add heavy cream and a handful of grated Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer everything together for 10–12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and the sauce is luscious and creamy.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil

Add torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

How to Serve and Store These Meatballs

These creamy chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them over pasta like fettuccine, egg noodles, or even gnocchi. They’re equally delicious on a bed of mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option. If you’re entertaining, try them as sliders on mini brioche buns with a spoonful of sauce.

To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. They also freeze beautifully—just skip the basil until you’re ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well, though the flavor may be slightly different. Opt for turkey with a bit of fat so the meatballs don’t dry out.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream?

Yes, you can use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. Just know it will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.

How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

The egg and breadcrumbs are key here. Don’t skip them, and avoid overmixing the meat. Let the meatballs chill for 10 minutes before browning for added firmness.

Can I bake the meatballs instead?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until cooked through, then transfer them to the sauce.

What sides pair well with this recipe?

Try serving them with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or creamy polenta. Garlic bread or crusty sourdough also pairs well to mop up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and reheat gently on the stove. Just add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If this dish hit the spot, you’ll love diving into more rich and hearty meals. Try these next:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli — comfort food at its finest.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce — a family-style baked dinner.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli — creamy, bright, and full of flavor.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo — for a bold kick and silky sauce.
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight — sweet, spicy, and indulgent.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or bread? Did you go spicy or keep it mellow?

I love seeing your kitchen creations and hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more cozy dinner inspiration on my Pinterest at Life with Jam.