Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce
A Cozy and Flavorful Dish for Every Occasion
There’s something magical about meatballs simmering in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. She had a way of making simple ingredients taste extraordinary—her secret? A touch of butter and a lot of love!
This Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce recipe is inspired by those home-cooked meals. The juicy chicken meatballs are seasoned to perfection, baked until golden, and then bathed in a buttery, herb-infused tomato sauce. Serve them over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside roasted potatoes for an unforgettable meal.
Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, it’s a recipe that will bring people together. Let’s get cooking!
Recipe Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings |
Ingredients for My Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh basil for garnish
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a Light Touch: Over-mixing the meatball mixture can make them dense. Mix just until combined for tender meatballs.
- Uniform Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop or wet your hands slightly to roll evenly sized meatballs. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter in the sauce adds richness and enhances the flavor of the tomatoes.
- Baking for Less Mess: Baking instead of pan-frying makes the process easier and prevents excess oil splattering.
- Pairing Matters: Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Tools Required for This Recipe
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet with parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Ground turkey | Ground chicken | Slightly leaner and milder flavor |
| Panko breadcrumbs | Regular breadcrumbs | Adds extra crunch and lightness |
| Fresh oregano | Dried oregano | More aromatic and intense herbaceous taste |
| Honey | Sugar | Adds natural sweetness to the sauce |
| Mozzarella | Parmesan | Creamier and more melty texture |
Make-Ahead Tips
- Meatballs: You can form the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Sauce: The tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper until just combined.
3. Form and Bake the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce
While the meatballs bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Combine and Simmer
Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently to coat. Let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or crusty bread!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for scooping up the rich tomato sauce |
| Buttered Pasta | A simple, comforting base for the meatballs |
| Roasted Potatoes | Adds a crispy, hearty side to balance the flavors |
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Suggested Drink That Pairs With This Dish
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce, complementing its acidity while enhancing the garlic and herbs.
Enjoy!
Now that you have the perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs in Savory Tomato Sauce, get ready for a cozy, delicious meal that will impress everyone! 🍽️
