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Easy Creamy Chicken Meatballs with Risoni – One-Pan Comfort Dinner Everyone Loves

This Easy Creamy Chicken Meatballs with Risoni recipe is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal—creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor. Juicy chicken meatballs are gently cooked in a rich, savory sauce with tender risoni (orzo), baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, creating a dish that feels indulgent while still being perfectly balanced. What makes this recipe special is how everything comes together in one pan. The risoni cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all the flavors, while the meatballs stay tender and juicy. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep when you want something hearty, creamy, and deeply satisfying without complicated steps. If you love one-pan dinners, creamy chicken recipes, and comfort food with a modern twist, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Meatballs
  • 500 g ground chicken
  • 1 egg
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons garlic minced
  • 1 small brown onion finely grated or minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • Olive oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
For the Risoni & Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small brown onion finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 135 g semi-dried sun-blushed tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 cup risoni orzo
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cups baby spinach fresh
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional, for heat
Ingredient Notes:
  • Ground chicken keeps the meatballs light yet juicy.
  • Risoni creates a risotto-like creaminess without the effort.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add deep savory sweetness that balances the cream.

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tip: A deep skillet or wide pan helps the risoni cook evenly without sticking.

Method
 

Step 1: Make the Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, combine:
  2. Ground chicken
  3. Egg
  4. Panko breadcrumbs
  5. Milk
  6. Garlic
  7. Grated onion
  8. Marjoram, paprika, salt, and black pepper
  9. Mix gently until just combined.
  10. Roll into medium-sized meatballs and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
  1. Heat olive oil (or spray) in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add meatballs in batches.
  3. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning until lightly golden on all sides.
  4. Remove meatballs and set aside (they will finish cooking later).
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
  1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and red wine vinegar.
  5. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add Liquids & Risoni
  1. Pour in chicken stock and water.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in risoni.
  4. Return meatballs to the skillet.
Step 5: Simmer
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
  2. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:
  3. Risoni is tender
  4. Meatballs are cooked through
Step 6: Make It Creamy
  1. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Add baby spinach and chili flakes (if using).
  3. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until spinach wilts and sauce thickens.
Step 7: Final Taste
  1. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
  2. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
Add a splash of stock or water if sauce thickens
Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day.
🥄 Variations
Extra Veggies
Add mushrooms or zucchini
Low-Carb Option
Replace risoni with cauliflower rice
Cheesy Boost
Add extra Parmesan before serving
Herb Twist
Use oregano or thyme instead of marjoram
Meal Prep Friendly
Portion into containers for easy lunches
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce chili for kids.
Does risoni get mushy?
No, if stirred occasionally.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats beautifully.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not as written; use gluten-free breadcrumbs and risoni.
Can I freeze it?
Not recommended due to cream sauce.
What does risoni taste like?
Similar to pasta, creamy like risotto.
Can I skip sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, but they add great depth.
Does the sauce thicken naturally?
Yes, from risoni and Parmesan.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan.
🏁 Conclusion
This creamy chicken meatballs with risoni dinner is everything a comforting one-pan meal should be—rich, cozy, and incredibly satisfying. Juicy meatballs, tender risoni, creamy sauce, and vibrant spinach come together in a dish that feels both indulgent and homey.
Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe proves that comfort food can be easy, balanced, and unforgettable. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table.