Ingredients
Method
- Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently with your hands until just combined - overmixing creates tough meatballs. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but still feel light and airy.
- Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions, about 1.5 inches across. Slightly wet hands prevent sticking and create smoother surfaces. You should get approximately 16-18 meatballs. Place them on a plate while you heat the pan.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add meatballs without overcrowding. Brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. They don't need to cook through completely - just develop that beautiful golden crust.
- Remove meatballs temporarily and reduce heat to medium. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, paprika, and oregano to the same pan. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the browned paprika chicken meatballs to the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes until meatballs reach 165°F internal temperature. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon, and the meatballs should be tender throughout.
Notes
Perfect for meal prep - double the batch and freeze half. Don't skip browning the meatballs for crucial flavor depth. Avoid packing the mixture too tightly when shaping. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Can be made ahead - shape up to 24 hours in advance or brown earlier in the day.
