If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that’s both rich and full of flavor, these Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Meatballs in Cream Sauce are exactly what you need. Juicy ground chicken meatballs infused with garlic and Parmesan, simmered in a luscious creamy sauce — this recipe strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re serving these over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and simple enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into why this recipe has quickly become a favorite and how you can master it in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Meatballs in Cream Sauce recipe brings together the best of both worlds: lean protein from ground chicken and a decadent, velvety sauce that feels like a treat. Here’s why it stands out:

Flavor-packed: Garlic and Parmesan cheese are a classic pairing, elevating the meatballs with an irresistible savory punch.
Easy and approachable: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile serving options: Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the sauce.
Quick to prepare: From mixing the meatballs to simmering in the sauce, you can have dinner ready in under 40 minutes.
Comfort food with a twist: The creamy sauce adds richness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the chicken.

If you love dishes with a creamy garlic sauce, you might also enjoy the Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Penne, which brings another layer of flavor to your weeknight repertoire.

Ingredient List

1 pound ground chicken
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)
Chopped parsley for garnish

Prep & Cook Tools

Large mixing bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients evenly.
Medium skillet or frying pan: To brown the meatballs and cook the cream sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To gently stir the sauce without breaking the meatballs.
Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.
Plate or tray: To hold the meatballs before cooking.

Directions: Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Meatballs in Cream Sauce

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate or tray. This recipe should yield about 18-20 meatballs depending on size.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-6 minutes total. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point. Remove the browned meatballs and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them gently into the sauce. Cover and let everything simmer together for 8-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the meatballs and cream sauce over your choice of side—pasta, rice, or something like the Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto makes an excellent pairing.

Tailor It to Your Diet

Lower fat: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour in place of regular bread crumbs.
Dairy-free: Replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap heavy cream with coconut cream.
Extra herbs: Add fresh thyme or oregano into the meatball mixture for an herby twist.
Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cream sauce for some heat.

Avoid These Mistakes

Overmixing the meatballs: This leads to dense, tough meatballs instead of tender bites.
Cooking meatballs on too high heat: This can cause the outside to burn before the inside cooks through.
Not letting the sauce thicken: Make sure to simmer the cream sauce long enough for it to coat the meatballs nicely.
Skipping the resting time: Let the meatballs sit a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This dish is a solid candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in the cream sauce on the stovetop until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs without sauce, then thaw and simmer them in freshly made cream sauce before serving. This method keeps the texture fresh and delicious.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

Creamy Lemon Pepper Turkey Meatball Penne – A zesty and creamy pasta dish that’s a twist on traditional meatballs.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Orzo Risotto – A silky and flavorful side perfect for soaking up creamy sauces.
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Penne – Another creamy chicken pasta with savory mushrooms and garlic.

Hungry for More?

If you love rich and creamy dishes like this one, be sure to explore other recipes that bring garlic and Parmesan to center stage. Whether it’s meatballs, pastas, or risottos, these flavor combinations make every meal feel special. Keep experimenting with fresh herbs, quality cheeses, and perfectly cooked proteins, and you’ll have a rotation of go-to dinners that never disappoint.

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Meatballs in Cream Sauce deliver on taste, texture, and simplicity. The tender meatballs soak up all the goodness of the creamy garlic sauce, making each bite a little moment of joy. Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the coziest dishes you’ll make this season.

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