Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce! Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, you’ve hit the jackpot. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs made from ground chicken, lovingly baked until golden brown, then nestled in a luscious tomato sauce that’s bursting with Italian seasonings. It’s comfort food at its best!

Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce - detail 1

What I adore about this dish is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a cozy family gathering, these meatballs never fail to impress. I remember the first time I made them for my family; my kids couldn’t get enough! They were devouring them like they were candy. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up – just mix, form, bake, and simmer. You can even prep the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking.

So, grab your apron and get ready to impress everyone around the dinner table with these delicious Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delightful dinner!

1 lb Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! Make sure to use fresh ground chicken for the best flavor and texture.
1/4 cup Breadcrumbs: These will help bind the meatballs together, giving them that perfect texture. You can use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs based on your preference.
1 large Egg: This acts as a binder, keeping the meatballs moist and tender.
1 tsp Garlic Powder: A must for flavor! It infuses the meatballs with that irresistible garlic aroma.
1 tsp Salt: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip this step!
1 cup Tomato Sauce: The base for your delicious sauce. You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you have some on hand.
1 tsp Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a lovely, aromatic touch to the sauce, making it extra flavorful.

That’s it! Simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting dish everyone will love.

How to Prepare Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the fun part: preparing these mouthwatering Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time.

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures a nice, even cook on your meatballs. Plus, you want that lovely, golden-brown color on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside. So, don’t skip this step!

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and salt. I like to use my hands for this because it’s the best way to really mix everything together. Just dive in there and squish it all up until it’s well combined! Trust me, the mixture should feel slightly tacky but well-blended—that’s how you know you’re ready to form the meatballs.

Forming and Baking the Meatballs

Next, it’s time to form your meatballs! Grab a handful of the mixture and roll it between your palms until you have a nice, round shape—about the size of a golf ball. Place each meatball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You’ll love that aroma filling your kitchen!

Making the Sauce

While those meatballs are baking, let’s whip up the sauce! In a saucepan, mix together the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Heat it over medium heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering step is key because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with your meatballs.

Serving the Meatballs

Once your meatballs are done baking, it’s time to bring everything together! Carefully pour the simmered sauce over the meatballs on the baking sheet, ensuring they’re all nicely coated. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, sprinkle some grated cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve these delicious meatballs with your favorite pasta, on a sub, or even on their own, and watch everyone at the table enjoy every last bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation Time: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in under an hour!
Healthy Alternative: Made with ground chicken, these meatballs are a leaner option compared to traditional beef or pork, giving you a nutritious dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Flavorful Sauce: The homemade sauce is simple yet bursting with flavor, thanks to the aromatic Italian seasoning that elevates the entire dish.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: These meatballs are perfect for picky eaters! Their tasty nature and fun shape make them an instant hit with kids—my own children can’t get enough!
Versatile Dish: Serve them over pasta, tuck them into a sub, or enjoy them on their own. The options are endless, making it easy to please everyone at the table!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce! Each serving (that’s about 4 meatballs) is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. Here’s an estimated breakdown:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Potassium: 500mg
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 5mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 2mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But overall, you can feel good about serving this wholesome dish to your family!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce turn out perfectly every time? I’ve got some handy tips for you that’ll help elevate your cooking game!

Evenly Sized Meatballs: Aim for uniform meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. This ensures they cook evenly, so you won’t have some overcooked and others undercooked. I like to use a small ice cream scoop for consistent sizing—works like a charm!
Check for Doneness: To make sure your meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut a meatball in half; it should be no longer pink inside.
Don’t Skip the Simmer: When you’re making the sauce, let it simmer for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that rich flavor, so don’t rush it! The longer it simmers, the more robust the taste becomes.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the meatballs and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or onions to the meatball mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the moisture balance in mind.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delectable Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers? Lucky you! These Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce are just as delicious the next day, so let’s talk about how to store and reheat them without losing any of that wonderful flavor.

First off, make sure the meatballs and sauce have cooled down to room temperature before you store them. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. I like to use an airtight container for storage—this keeps them fresh and flavorful. They’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just label the container with the date so you know when they need to be eaten!

When it comes to reheating, the stovetop is my go-to method. Just place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir them gently as they warm up, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if they seem a bit dry. This keeps everything nice and moist. It should take about 5-10 minutes to heat through.

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop the meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate (to avoid splatters), and heat them in short intervals, like 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until they’re heated all the way through.

And there you go! Enjoy those leftovers just as much as the first time around. Trust me, they’re so good, you might find yourself looking forward to them even more!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Baked Chicken Meatballs in Sauce? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear, along with my answers to help you navigate this delicious recipe.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. You can follow the same recipe, and your turkey meatballs will turn out just as tasty!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
No problem at all! To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can find plenty of options at the store, or you can make your own by grinding gluten-free crackers or bread. Just make sure to check the labels if you’re buying pre-made breadcrumbs to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these meatballs! I recommend freezing them before baking for the best texture. Just form the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to use them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Baked Chicken Meatballs?
The possibilities are endless! You can serve these meatballs over pasta, in a sub with melted cheese, or even alongside a fresh salad. They’re also great as a party appetizer! Just provide toothpicks, and watch them disappear!

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you enjoy every delicious bite of these meatballs! Check out more ideas on Pinterest.