If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug and yet wows your taste buds, you simply have to try this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe. Tender, flavorful chicken meatballs bathed in a luscious, herb-packed sauce that elegantly blends sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a silky coconut milk base—this dish brings together comfort and sophistication on one plate. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel special, whether you’re whipping it up for family dinner or impressing close friends, and it’s perfect for sharing stories over second helpings.

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe is all about simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in creating rich flavor and delightful textures. Every component, from the ground chicken to the fresh basil, works harmoniously to bring out the best in this dish.

2 lbs ground chicken: The star protein, providing tender meatballs that stay juicy and light.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Helps bind the meatballs without making them dense.
½ cup plain panko breadcrumbs: Adds a subtle crunch and holds the meatballs together.
¼ cup fresh chopped basil: Infuses a fresh, aromatic note for a perfect herbaceous punch.
1 tablespoon garlic paste: Delivers a deep, mellow garlic flavor without sharpness.
2 teaspoons herbes de Provence: A fragrant blend that brings a touch of French countryside charm.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a mild smoky warmth and vibrant color.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning to enhance every flavor layer.
2-3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra if needed): Used for browning the meatballs and sautéing the sauce ingredients with rich fruitiness.
1 large shallot, finely diced: Adds a sweet, delicate onion flavor perfect for sauces.
1 (7-8 ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, drained and chopped (reserve oil): This ingredient brings bursts of concentrated tomato flavor and a luscious texture.
⅓ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio): Adds brightness and complexity when deglazing the pan.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Contributes a subtle tang and depth to the sauce.
½ – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gently heats the sauce with a pleasant kick.
1 ½ cups chicken broth: Builds a savory base for the sauce.
1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk: Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy with a gentle hint of coconut.
¼ cup fresh chopped basil, plus more for serving: Fresh basil enhances the sauce with vibrant herbal notes.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and a luscious finish.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining all the meatball ingredients gently in a large bowl—ground chicken, eggs, panko, basil, garlic paste, herbes de Provence, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The key here is not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender and light. Mix just until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Next, use a medium scoop to portion the mixture, shaping into golf ball-sized meatballs. Rolling them smoothly in your hands will help them hold together better when cooking, giving you that classic round shape that’s so inviting to the eye.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs in batches. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan so they sear properly instead of steaming. Once golden on all sides, remove them from the pan and set aside. This step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Make the Marry Me Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté the diced shallot until soft and fragrant. Add garlic paste and chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook until their aroma fills your kitchen. Next, deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer until tomatoes soften further, then stir in Dijon mustard, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and chicken broth for a comforting and robust base.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce to Creamy Perfection

Stir in the full-fat coconut milk and let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens slightly, turning silky and smooth. This step is where the magic happens that elevates the sauce from tender to truly luxurious.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, carefully add back the browned meatballs along with fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat every bite of meatball in the creamy sauce, then let everything simmer together for 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring the meatballs cook through and the sauce thickens to the perfect consistency.

Step 7: Serving

Your Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe is now ready to serve! A generous spoonful of those luscious meatballs and sauce over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice creates a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

The best way to brighten up the presentation is with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil and a little extra Parmesan cheese on top. These simple garnishes add color, freshness, and a touch of indulgence that makes each bite even better.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are the classic sides to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans add a vibrant crunch and color contrast without stealing the spotlight from your star chicken meatballs.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on polenta or alongside warm crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. You can even try stuffing these meatballs into sliders for a party snack option that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, cool any leftover meatballs and sauce to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. The sauce can be frozen separately or together with the meatballs, remaining good for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, stirring occasionally. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Add a splash of broth or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will provide a similarly light and tender texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly and check for doneness.

Is it necessary to use coconut milk for the sauce?

Coconut milk adds a creamy richness and a subtle hint of coconut flavor, but you can substitute with heavy cream or full-fat cream for a different kind of creaminess if preferred.

How spicy is the sauce with red pepper flakes?

The amount of red pepper flakes is adjustable to your taste. Using ½ teaspoon gives a gentle warmth, while 1 teaspoon adds a noticeable but pleasant kick. Feel free to omit if you prefer no heat.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the meatball mixture and shape them a day ahead, keeping them refrigerated until ready to cook, which helps save time on the day you plan to serve.

What kind of wine is best for deglazing the pan?

Dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are ideal. They add brightness without overpowering the sauce and help lift those delicious browned bits from the pan.

Final Thoughts

I hope this warm, comforting Creamy Marry Me Chicken Meatballs Recipe finds a happy spot in your kitchen repertoire. It’s a beautiful blend of simple ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels special every time. Cooking, sharing, and savoring this one will surely have everyone coming back for seconds and asking when you’ll make it again.