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 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Planning

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce! This dish not only delivers comforting flavors but is also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners. The ground chicken stays moist while absorbing the rich, tangy sauce, and when served over pasta or with bread, it's simply irresistible. You’ll find that the combination of fresh herbs and garlic brings everything to life, making this meal one the whole family will adore.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-03-29T07:27:54.770Z

When I first experimented with ground chicken for meatballs, I was amazed at how juicy and flavorful they turned out. Unlike traditional beef or pork, ground chicken absorbs the accompanying spices and herbs beautifully, giving every bite a burst of flavor. I usually add a splash of milk to the mixture, which helps keep the meatballs tender and moist while they cook.

One of my favorite secrets is to bake the meatballs instead of frying them. This method reduces the mess and keeps them healthy while still achieving a lovely golden color. Paired with my homemade tomato sauce, you can truly savor the delightful contrast between the zesty sauce and succulent meatballs.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Juicy and tender meatballs that are easy to prepare
Rich tomato sauce infused with fresh herbs
A wholesome meal perfect for any night of the week

Getting the Meatballs Just Right

When making meatballs, the texture is key. Ground chicken can tend to be a little dry, so adding breadcrumbs and milk not only enhances flavor but also keeps the meatballs juicy. I find that soaking the breadcrumbs in milk before mixing ensures they absorb moisture evenly, yielding a tender bite. Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; combine just until ingredients are integrated to avoid tough meatballs.

Aim for uniformity in size when shaping your meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This ensures they cook evenly. If you prefer a larger serving, feel free to increase the size, but remember to adjust the baking time. A good visual cue is when they develop a golden brown exterior, indicating that they are cooked through and safe to eat.

Crafting the Perfect Tomato Sauce

The tomato sauce is the heart of this dish, and using high-quality ingredients can elevate the final result significantly. Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if possible, as their sweetness and low acidity create a balanced sauce. When sautéing the onions, look for a transparency level that indicates they are ready without browning; this creates a sweeter base for the sauce.

Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After incorporating the meatballs into the sauce, let them simmer on low heat for at least 5 minutes to absorb the aromatic goodness. If you desire a touch of richness, consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter at the end, which adds a luxurious finish.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce

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

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Form this mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in size.

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.

Make the Tomato Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Sauce and Meatballs

Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Once the meatballs are baked, gently transfer them into the tomato sauce and let them simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Serve the meatballs with your favorite pasta or on their own with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce or mixing in some finely chopped spinach with the meatballs.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can store the cooked meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs and sauce separately. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

When reheating, check for a consistent temperature throughout, especially if microwaving. If using the microwave, heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between to ensure even warming. Always be mindful that meat can dry out if overheated, so aim for just warmed through rather than hot.

Serving Suggestions

These ground chicken meatballs shine brightly atop a bed of pasta. I love serving them over spaghetti or linguine, allowing the sauce to coat the noodles beautifully. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, try serving them over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the dish further.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving these meatballs as appetizers. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, and you can also present the sauce in a small bowl for dipping. Feel free to add a side of crusty bread for some extra comfort and a delightful way to enjoy the flavorful sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the baked meatballs before adding them to the sauce. They keep well for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even oats as a binder if you prefer.

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

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and will yield a similarly delicious dish.