Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni in a creamy sauce on a plate

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. The flavors blend beautifully, combining juicy chicken meatballs with the creamy texture of risoni. This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion. The charming name suggests that it’s so good, it could win over anyone’s heart!

how to make Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni

Ingredients:

  • 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) minced (ground) chicken
  • 1½ cups (90 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 small brown onion, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated parmesan
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • Olive oil spray or 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 brown onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
  • 135 g (5 oz) semi-dried (sun-blushed) tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (concentrated puree)
  • 2 cups (500 ml) chicken stock
  • 1 cup (200 g) risoni (orzo)
  • ½ cup (125 ml) thickened (heavy) cream
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp chilli (red pepper) flakes, plus extra to serve (optional)
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ cup (125 ml) water
  • 2 cups (100 g) fresh baby spinach
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated parmesan, plus extra to serve

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, parmesan, milk, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine everything well.
  2. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a meatball slightly smaller than a golf ball. If it’s sticky, wet your hands with water. You should make about 12 meatballs.
  3. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the meatballs on the tray, making sure they don’t touch. Spray them generously with olive oil and bake for 10 minutes. Then, turn on the oven grill and broil the meatballs for another 3-4 minutes until they are lightly browned.
  4. Alternatively, you can cook the meatballs in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F), spray the basket with olive oil, place the meatballs inside, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  5. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  6. Add the semi-dried tomatoes and red wine vinegar to the pan and cook for 30 seconds.
  7. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  8. Pour in the chicken stock, add the risoni, cream, oregano, chilli flakes (if using), and black pepper. Stir regularly for 5 minutes.
  9. Add the water and keep cooking while stirring for another 5 minutes, or until the risoni is tender.
  10. Turn off the heat and stir in the baby spinach and parmesan until the spinach wilts.
  11. Finally, add the baked meatballs to the sauce and mix well to coat them.

how to serve Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Meatballs warm on a plate. You can add extra chilli flakes and grated parmesan on top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in a pan or microwave.

tips to make Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni

  1. Keep hands moist: If the meatball mixture is too sticky, wet your hands with some water to make rolling easier.
  2. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion give the best flavor.
  3. Don’t overcook the risoni: Stir regularly to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
  4. Add veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

variation

You can swap chicken with turkey for a lighter option, or use a mixture of minced meats for a richer flavor. Add different herbs or spices according to your taste. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish, too!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of risoni?
Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like tiny shells or macaroni, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.