For a surprisingly quick and elegant weeknight meal, look no further than Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs. The sauce, made with a generous amount of garlic and cream cheese, transforms ground chicken into a decadent dish that feels anything but ordinary. Simply bake the meatballs until golden before simmering them in the rich sauce. It’s a guaranteed way to turn a simple dinner into a cozy, satisfying occasion.
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Weeknight Magic in One Pan!
- Fast & Flavorful – Everything comes together in under 35 minutes for a quick dinner win.
- One-Skillet Wonder – You’ll cook the meatballs and sauce in the same pan for easy cleanup.
- Family-Friendly Favorite – The creamy garlic sauce is a hit with both kids and adults.
- Effortlessly Elegant – It looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal made at home.
What You’ll Need for Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs
For the meatballs
- Ground chicken – Use fresh, lean ground chicken for the best results.
- Parmesan cheese – Finely grated works best here for even distribution.
- Plain breadcrumbs – Classic breadcrumbs keep the meatballs tender.
- Egg – Lightly beaten to bind everything together.
- Garlic – Minced finely for that bold, aromatic flavor.
- Dried Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for savory depth.
- Kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors just right.
- Black pepper – Adds a subtle kick of spice.
For the sauce
- Olive oil – A good-quality one for cooking the meatballs to golden perfection.
- Heavy cream – Rich and luxurious, the base of that dreamy sauce.
- Chicken broth – Adds savory depth and balances the cream.
- Unsalted butter – For richness and a smooth finish.
- All-purpose flour – Just enough to thicken the sauce beautifully.
For garnish
- Fresh parsley – Chopped finely for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs Timeline
I love recipes that respect our busy schedules, and this one is a true lifesaver. You’ll spend about 15 minutes getting everything prepped and mixed together. Then, the magic happens in the pan for just 20 minutes more.
In under 35 minutes total, you’ll have a beautiful, homemade dinner on the table that feels special. This makes it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something satisfying fast. If you’re looking for other quick family meals, you’ll love this easy creamy spinach pasta.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Equipment
- skillet
- measuring cups
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, half of the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 20 equal-sized meatballs, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each, rolling them gently between your palms to form smooth balls.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a clean plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the same skillet. Add the remaining minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a paste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to remove any lumps. Then whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Making This Recipe Work for You
I often get asked about making recipes more sugar-conscious or diabetic-friendly. For these creamy garlic chicken meatballs, the sauce is naturally savory, which is a great start. You can easily make a few swaps to keep it that way.
For instance, always use a low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, you could swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. Portion control is also a fantastic way to enjoy this flavorful dish as part of a balanced plate.
My Best Tips for Amazing Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs
After making these time and again for my family, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make them absolutely perfect every single time.
- Don’t Overmix – When combining your meatball ingredients, use your hands and mix just until everything is incorporated. Overworking the meat can make your meatballs tough instead of tender and juicy.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs – While dried Italian seasoning is convenient, feel free to use a tablespoon of fresh, finely chopped herbs like basil or oregano for a brighter flavor pop.
- Get a Good Sear – Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the meatballs. This gives them a beautiful golden-brown crust that adds so much flavor to the final dish, much like getting a perfect sear on garlic butter steak.
- Storage Smarts – These reheat beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. For more great ground meat ideas, check out our favorite meatball recipe collection.
A Look at Nutrition & Health Benefits
This dish isn’t just about incredible taste; it also offers some great nutritional perks. Chicken is a fantastic lean protein source, which helps keep you feeling full and supports muscle health.
Using lean ground chicken means you get all that protein with less saturated fat than other meats. Garlic isn’t just for flavor—it’s also known for its beneficial properties. For more ideas on incorporating healthy, flavorful proteins into your diet, our garlic chicken breast is another great option. Pairing these Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs with a side of veggies or a salad makes for a very balanced meal. You can also learn more about achieving tender, juicy meatballs from traditional cooking experts.
Creating a Lighter Version of This Dish
If you’re watching your calories or fat intake, you can easily create a lighter version of this recipe without sacrificing the cozy, creamy factor.
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of cornstarch for thickening. For a dairy-free alternative, try using unsweetened almond or oat milk creamer. You can also use a leaner ground turkey instead of chicken and bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying them to reduce oil. For another comforting yet lighter meal, this creamy vegetable soup is a fantastic choice. Explore more chicken meatballs recipes for additional inspiration.
How to Serve Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs in Style
I love serving this dish on a busy Wednesday night to make it feel like a weekend treat. The rich, savory aroma that fills the kitchen always brings my family running to the table.
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. For a classic comfort meal, serve them over a bed of mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or fluffy rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible creamy garlic sauce. They also pair wonderfully with zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option or a simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top makes it look gorgeous. It reminds me of the cozy feeling I get from a bowl of creamy tortellini soup.
Common Mistakes (So You Don’t Make Them)
Even the simplest recipes have their pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your meatballs are perfect.
- Overpacking the Meatballs – Roll them gently! Compacting them too much will make them dense. Think light and airy for the best texture.
- Crowding the Pan – Give your meatballs space to brown. If you overcrowd the skillet, they’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if you need to.
- Scorching the Garlic – When making the sauce, keep the heat to medium-low after adding the garlic. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and will ruin your lovely sauce.
- Skipping the Rest – Let the cooked meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more tender.
Following these simple tips will lead you to the best creamy garlic chicken meatballs you’ve ever made. For more sauce inspiration, take a look at our guide for a perfect garlic parmesan sauce. You can also discover the rich history of meatballs to appreciate this classic dish even more.
Storing and Enjoying Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs Later
This recipe makes fantastic leftovers—the flavors meld and get even better overnight! I often double the batch intentionally so we have a ready-made lunch for the next day.
Let the meatballs and sauce cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a small splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce back up. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. For another freezable family favorite, this meatball casserole is a winner. And if you love the Italian flavor profile, you must try these Italian meatballs in marinara sauce.
Your Turn to Make These Creamy Garlic Chicken Meatballs
I truly hope this recipe becomes a new staple in your home like it has in mine. It’s the kind of meal that feels both special and completely doable, which is the sweet spot for busy cooks.
There’s nothing quite like seeing your family’s faces light up when you bring a skillet of these tender meatballs simmered in rich garlic cream to the table. So grab your ingredients and give it a try this week! I’d love to hear how it goes. For more delicious dinner inspiration, explore our entire collection of meatball dishes and other favorites like garlic parmesan chicken spaghetti and Salisbury steak meatballs.
More Cozy Dinner Ideas You’ll Adore
If you loved this creamy, comforting dish, you simply have to try these other family-friendly favorites. They’re all about big flavor without the fuss.
Creamy Spinach Pasta – A vibrant, one-pot pasta that’s packed with greens and ready in minutes.Garlic Butter Steak – Juicy steak cooked in an irresistible garlic butter sauce for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Creamy Tortellini Soup – The ultimate comfort food soup with cheesy tortellini in a rich, savory broth.
Crispy Garlic Chicken – For when you’re craving something wonderfully crunchy and full of garlicky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Creamy garlic chicken meatballs recipe?
You’ve found it! This is my go-to recipe for creamy garlic chicken meatballs. It uses simple ingredients like ground chicken, Parmesan, and a rich garlic cream sauce for a dinner that’s both easy and impressive. The full instructions are above to guide you through each step.
Easy creamy garlic chicken meatballs?
This recipe is designed to be incredibly easy. The meatballs come together quickly, and the sauce is made right in the same skillet. In about 35 minutes, you’ll have a homemade meal that tastes far from simple, perfect for a stress-free weeknight.
Creamy garlic chicken meatballs with cream cheese?
While this particular recipe uses a roux (butter and flour) with heavy cream to create the sauce, adding cream cheese is a fantastic twist! For a tangier, ultra-creamy sauce, simply whisk in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese at the end until it’s completely melted and smooth.
Best sauce for chicken meatballs?
In my opinion, this creamy garlic sauce is one of the best pairings for chicken meatballs. It’s rich, savory, and clings to the meatballs perfectly. Other great options include a classic marinara, a sweet and sour glaze, or a herby pesto sauce for a lighter take.
