When it comes to comfort food with a gourmet twist, chicken meatballs in a creamy bell pepper sauce hit the sweet spot. Juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a velvety sauce made from sweet peppers, onion, and cream come together in a dish that feels both cozy and elevated.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to serve when hosting guests. Pair it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a meal that satisfies both the eyes and the appetite.

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Why This Recipe Works

1. Light yet satisfying – Using ground chicken keeps the meatballs lean, while cream and peppers create richness without heaviness.

2. Flavor layering – The sweetness of roasted peppers, the depth of smoked paprika, and the silkiness of cream make each bite dynamic.

3. Versatile pairing – This dish adapts to pasta nights, cozy rice bowls, or Sunday mashed potato feasts.

4. Family-friendly – Creamy sauces are always a hit, and the mild flavors are perfect for kids and adults alike.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories per serving: ~460 kcal

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500 g ground chicken

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—over-mixing can make the meatballs tough. Shape the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, searing them on all sides until golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté sliced onion and bell peppers until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in garlic and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, mixing well to coat the vegetables. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat and add heavy cream, stirring until the sauce turns smooth and silky. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving. Enjoy with your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs

1. Moisture matters – The combination of egg, milk, and breadcrumbs keeps chicken meatballs tender instead of dry.

2. Even sizing – Use a small scoop or spoon to form meatballs that cook evenly.

3. Don’t skip browning – Browning the meatballs first adds flavor and helps them hold their shape in the sauce.

4. Balance the sauce – Taste as you go; adjust cream or broth depending on how thick or rich you want the sauce.

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Flavor Variations

• Different proteins – Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or ground pork for a richer flavor.

• Extra vegetables – Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for more nutrients.

• Spicy kick – Stir in red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.

• Cheesy upgrade – Finish the dish with grated Parmesan for added depth.

• Herb swap – Try basil or thyme instead of parsley for a fresh twist.

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Nutritional Highlights

This dish offers a balance of macronutrients and vitamins:

• Lean protein – Chicken provides a high-protein, lower-fat base for the meal.

• Antioxidants – Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health.

• Satiety – The cream adds richness, helping keep you full while balancing the lightness of the chicken.

• Versatility – Depending on what you pair it with—pasta, rice, or vegetables—you can make it more carb-heavy or low-carb to suit your needs.

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Serving Suggestions

• With pasta – Toss freshly cooked fettuccine or penne directly in the sauce for an Italian-inspired meal.

• Over rice – A bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.

• With mashed potatoes – Creamy potatoes paired with creamy sauce is the ultimate comfort food combination.

• Low-carb option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.

For drinks, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lime pairs perfectly with this dish’s creamy and smoky flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes. Then add them to the sauce to finish cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. Cook the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving. The sauce may thicken when refrigerated, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

3. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Store cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight and reheat on the stove.

4. How can I lighten the sauce?
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie version.

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Final Thoughts

Chicken Meatballs in Creamy Bell Pepper Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and sophistication together in one skillet. The juicy meatballs soak up the rich, smoky, and slightly sweet sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, date night, or as a meal-prep option, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, it’s bound to become part of your regular cooking rotation.