Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Ranch Sauce are the perfect combination of juicy, tender meatballs and a rich, tangy sauce. Packed with herbs and spices, these meatballs are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The creamy ranch sauce adds a delightful twist, making this dish a great choice for dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. Serve it with pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs, placing them on a plate or tray.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, forming a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the heavy cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently tossing them in the creamy ranch sauce to coat.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the meatballs through.
- Serve the meatballs with pasta, mashed potatoes, or over steamed rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Ground Chicken: For extra flavor, you can use a mix of ground chicken and ground turkey.
- Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs work well in this recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Roux: Be sure to cook the flour in the butter until it turns golden, as this will help prevent a raw flour taste in the sauce.
Variations
Spicy Chicken Meatballs
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Ranch Meatballs
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meatball mixture for extra cheesy flavor. You can also sprinkle more cheese over the meatballs while they simmer in the sauce.
Lemon Herb Ranch Sauce
- Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the ranch sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
Can I Use Store-Bought Ranch Dressing Instead of Making the Sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the homemade ranch sauce with your favorite store-bought ranch dressing. Just heat the dressing in the skillet until warm, then add the cooked meatballs.
Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Ranch Sauce are a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken meatballs paired with the rich, tangy ranch sauce make this recipe a standout for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and variations to make this dish your own.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these creamy, flavorful chicken meatballs!
