If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, these Creamy Mushroom Chicken Meatballs are exactly what you need! Juicy, golden-brown chicken meatballs are simmered in a rich and velvety mushroom sauce, making this dish perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.
Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, and watch it become a household favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Meatballs
1. Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until the ingredients are just incorporated—avoid overmixing for the best texture.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Using a small scoop or your hands, form evenly sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Sear the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside—they will finish cooking in the sauce.
Preparing the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
1. Sauté the Mushrooms
Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and develop a golden color. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Make the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any flavorful browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Simmer the Meatballs
Return the seared meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta – Toss with fettuccine or penne for a creamy, indulgent dish.
- With Mashed Potatoes – Serve over buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- On Steamed Rice – A simple, gluten-free way to enjoy these creamy meatballs.
- With Crusty Bread – Perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce!
Tips for Success
✔ Use Moist Ingredients – If your mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk or extra breadcrumbs to maintain tenderness.
✔ Test the Seasoning – Cook a small piece of the mixture and taste before forming all the meatballs.
✔ For Crispy Meatballs – After searing, finish them under the broiler for 3-5 minutes for a golden crust.
✔ Don’t Overcook – Simmer on low heat to prevent the cream from separating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free? Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and omit Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free? Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Spice it Up! Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- Try Another Protein – Ground turkey, pork, or beef can replace chicken for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and sear the meatballs, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them in the sauce before enjoying.
❓ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw and reheat in the sauce when ready to serve.
❓ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with ground turkey, pork, or even beef.