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Marsala Chicken Meatballs

Chicken Meatballs in Mushroom Sauce

These tender chicken meatballs simmer in a rich mushroom-onion sauce for a cozy, comforting dish that feels both homestyle and gourmet — all without using wine. Simple ingredients, deep flavors, and an easy stovetop method make this a reliable weeknight favorite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth mixed with 1 tsp balsamic vinegar non-alcoholic substitute for Marsala
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound ground chicken
For the Mushroom Sauce
  • Remaining chopped yellow onions from the 2 large onions
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound sliced button or cremini mushrooms
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth mixed with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar non-alcoholic substitute for Marsala
  • 1.75 cups water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
  • Chopped flat-leaf parsley

Method
 

  1. Combine 1 cup chopped onions, bread crumbs, broth–vinegar mixture, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix, then gently fold in ground chicken. Shape into 14 meatballs.
  2. Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high with 3 tablespoons olive oil.
  3. Sear meatballs 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Add remaining onions and cook on high, stirring occasionally, until golden and softened, about 6 minutes.
  5. Add mushrooms and cook 6 minutes until reduced. Sprinkle flour and cook 1 minute.
  6. Pour in broth–vinegar mixture, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 2 minutes until glossy, then add water and salt.
  7. Return meatballs, reduce heat, and simmer partially covered for 12 minutes until cooked through and sauce thickens.

Notes

Lightly oil your hands to prevent the chicken mixture from sticking. If the sauce reduces too much, add a splash of water. Cremini mushrooms add deeper flavor. For extra richness, stir in a bit of butter at the end.