Name: Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage in Creamy Comfort Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage, plus more for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing together the earthiness of pumpkin and the aromatic touch of sage. This comforting dish features tender, pumpkin-infused chicken meatballs simmered in a rich, velvety sage cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or an elegant gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress. With just 45 minutes of your time and a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

There are numerous reasons to adore this dish! First, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. The use of pumpkin not only adds flavor but also provides essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. Second, these Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The sage-infused cream sauce elevates the flavors, providing a savory and aromatic experience. Plus, these meatballs are versatile; they pair well with various sides, making them ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

Gather these items:

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage, plus more for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Make Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the chopped sage.
Step 6: Gently add the meatballs back to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Step 7: Serve the pumpkin chicken meatballs in sage cream sauce over mashed potatoes or rice, garnished with additional fresh sage and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage in Creamy Comfort Sauce - Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.
For extra flavor, consider adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meatball mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Pair them with gluten-free pasta for a satisfying dish.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

To store, place the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This makes for a great meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy these delicious meatballs on busy days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage?

The key is balancing the pumpkin and chicken flavors while ensuring the meatballs are not overcooked. Using fresh sage enhances the flavor profile and keeps the meatballs moist.

Can I make Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat them in the sauce before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage?

Make sure to mix the ingredients well but don’t overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Also, monitor the cooking time carefully to prevent dryness.

Variations of Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage You Can Try

Explore these variations:

Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
Add chopped spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
For a spicy kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture.

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or try making cheesy mashed potato balls for a delightful side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss the cosmic brownie bites.

Pumpkin Chicken Meatballs Sage in Creamy Comfort Sauce

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tender pumpkin-infused chicken meatballs simmered in a rich, velvety sage cream sauce.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to a plate.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the chopped sage.
Gently add the meatballs back to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve the pumpkin chicken meatballs in sage cream sauce over mashed potatoes or rice, garnished with additional fresh sage and Parmesan cheese, if desired.