Chicken Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Okay, so you guys, I have to tell you about these Chicken Swedish Meatballs! They are super soft, juicy, and full of yummy flavor. And guess what? They are way easier to make than you think!

I tried them one night when I was really tired, and wow — my whole family loved them. They taste like cozy comfort food but with a little twist. Plus, I used chicken, so they feel a bit lighter too!

You know what’s the best part? They come with the creamiest sauce ever — and yep, I’m obsessed. These meatballs are perfect for dinner, and even lunch the next day (if you have any left!). So, if you want something easy and so good, you’ve gotta try this recipe!

So, are you ready to make these delicious Chicken Swedish Meatballs with me? Let’s do it! Keep reading, and I’ll show you how!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lighter Option: Made with ground chicken instead of beef or pork, these meatballs are light yet filling.
• Comforting and Cozy: The rich, creamy gravy is perfect for pairing with classic sides like mashed potatoes or noodles.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and basic ingredients make this a stress-free recipe, even for beginners.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and freeze for quick meals later.
• Family Favorite: Kid-friendly flavors that everyone at the table will enjoy.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes about 20 meatballs, serving 4 to 5 people.

Difficulty Level

Easy and approachable—perfect for beginner cooks but satisfying for seasoned home chefs.

Required Kitchen Tools

Make sure you have these tools ready before starting:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: To measure out your ingredients precisely.
• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: Preferably non-stick, for browning meatballs and making the sauce.
• Tongs or Spatula: To turn the meatballs while cooking.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free gravy.
• Baking Sheet (Optional): If you prefer to bake the meatballs instead of frying.

Ingredients for Chicken Swedish Meatballs

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting dish together. Exact measurements are in the recipe card below:

• Panko Breadcrumbs: To give the meatballs a light, tender texture.
• Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatballs moist.
• Ground Chicken: Lean but flavorful—perfect for a lighter meatball.
• Egg: Helps bind the meatballs so they hold together.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note (use half for meatballs, half for garnish).
• Garlic Powder: A gentle kick of savory flavor.
• Onion Powder: Adds depth without chopping fresh onions.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balance and taste.
• Butter: For browning the meatballs and creating a rich base for the gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the creamy sauce.
• Beef Broth: Adds hearty flavor to the gravy—chicken broth can be substituted.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce smooth and velvety.

Variations for Chicken Swedish Meatballs

• Turkey Option: Substitute ground turkey if you prefer an even leaner protein.
• Add Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the meatballs for a nutty flavor boost.
• Herb Variations: Try adding thyme or dill for a different herbal note.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes, and swap heavy cream for a plant-based cream.
• Extra Seasoning: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the meatballs for traditional Swedish flair.

How to Make Chicken Swedish Meatballs

Making these meatballs is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps to get soft, flavorful meatballs smothered in a creamy, dreamy sauce.

Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk

Let them sit for 5 minutes. This step keeps your meatballs super tender and moist.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

To the soaked breadcrumbs, add:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (save half for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined. Don’t overmix—it’ll make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls. You should get around 20 meatballs. Try to keep them the same size so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan), and cook until they’re golden brown on all sides and cooked through — about 6–8 minutes.

Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Gravy

In the same skillet, add:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Whisk them together and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

Slowly pour in:

• 1½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream

Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens — about 4–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Add Meatballs Back In

Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors come together and make sure everything is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Don’t forget that extra spoonful of sauce — it’s the best part!

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Chicken Swedish Meatballs

These creamy, tender meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: The rich gravy makes these meatballs perfect for spooning over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes.
• Egg Noodles: Serve over wide egg noodles to catch all the creamy sauce.
• Rice: Plain or seasoned rice works well to soak up the flavorful gravy.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add some color and balance with sides like steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots.
• Lingonberry Jam (Traditional): For a nod to classic Swedish cuisine, serve with a dollop of lingonberry jam for a sweet-tart contrast.

Garnish Tip: Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley right before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.

Storing Chicken Swedish Meatballs

Refrigeration:

• Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing:

• These meatballs freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• To freeze uncooked meatballs, shape them and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag or container.

Reheating:

• To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low to medium heat. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• If reheating from frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
• Uniform Size: Keep the meatballs the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Brown Well: Searing the meatballs before simmering adds rich flavor and helps them hold together in the sauce.
• Smooth Sauce: Whisk the flour well when making the roux to avoid lumps in your gravy.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more broth. If too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
• Optional Baked Version: Prefer not to fry? You can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, then add them to the sauce.

Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	380 kcal
Protein	26 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	25 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Cholesterol	170 mg
Sodium	620 mg
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	1 g

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Chicken Swedish Meatballs FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and creates a similar texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and gravy up to 2 days ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat together when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to let the breadcrumbs soak in milk fully and don’t overmix the meat mixture. A gently combined mixture holds together better.

What if my sauce is too thick or thin?

If too thick, add a splash of broth or cream. If too thin, let it simmer a few more minutes to reduce.

Conclusion

These Chicken Swedish Meatballs are a cozy, family-friendly meal that’s simple to make and loaded with comforting flavors. Perfect for weeknights or even small gatherings, they offer a lighter take on a classic dish without skimping on taste. Pair them with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner everyone will love.