As the aroma of sizzling meatballs fills the kitchen, a comforting warmth wraps around me, evoking memories of cozy family dinners. Today, we’re diving into a delightful twist on a classic: Lighter Chicken Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy. This recipe artfully replaces traditional beef and pork with juicy ground chicken, offering a hearty yet lighter take that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re seeking a quick midweek meal or a satisfying option to please everyone at the table, these meatballs deliver. Pair them with fluffy mashed potatoes, tender egg noodles, or a simple bowl of rice, and watch your family savor each bite. Are you ready to bring a taste of Sweden into your home tonight?

Why Try These Chicken Swedish Meatballs?

Comfort Food Redefined: Enjoy a lighter take on a classic dish that won’t compromise on flavor.

Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Juicy ground chicken combined with a creamy gravy means happy plates all around.

Flexible Serving Options: Perfect over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to suit everyone’s preference.

Make-Ahead Magic: These meatballs store beautifully, making your weeknight meals stress-free.
Try garnishing with fresh parsley to brighten the dish, and you’ll elevate your dinner effortlessly!

Chicken Swedish Meatballs Ingredients

For the Meatballs
• Ground Chicken – Provides a juicy and tender alternative to traditional meats.
• Onion – Finely diced for moisture and depth of flavor.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
• Allspice – Gives the meatballs their characteristic warm flavor; substitute with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
• Nutmeg – Adds a hint of sweetness and warmth, best when fresh.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; adjust according to your taste.
• Egg – Binds the mixture for perfectly formed meatballs.
• Plain Breadcrumbs – Contributes texture and absorbs excess moisture; gluten-free options work well too.

For the Gravy
• Oil – A neutral oil like canola for frying helps achieve golden-brown meatballs.
• Butter – Creates a rich roux base for the gravy.
• Flour – Thickens the gravy, ensuring a smooth consistency; cornstarch offers a gluten-free alternative.
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful base of the gravy; opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought.
• Half & Half – Adds creaminess to enhance the meatballs and gravy; whole milk serves as an alternative.
• Sour Cream – Introduces a tangy creaminess to the dish; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute.

Serving Options
• Mashed Potatoes, Egg Noodles, or Rice – Perfect accompaniments to soak up that delicious creamy gravy.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lighter Chicken Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

Step 1: Prep Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, half & half, egg, and spices like allspice and nutmeg. Mix until everything is well integrated, taking care not to overwork the meat. Once blended, shape the mixture into approximately 20 golf ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Brown Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a couple of tablespoons of neutral oil. Once hot, carefully place the meatballs into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the meatballs for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make Gravy
After removing the meatballs, drain any excess oil from the skillet, leaving the flavorful browned bits. Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and foam. Stir in flour to create a roux, blending well to cook for about a minute until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, making sure no lumps form, and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy
Return the browned chicken meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the gravy. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing everything to simmer for 15 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a thermometer, making sure they reach at least 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 5: Finish Gravy
After simmering, stir in any leftover half & half to enrich the gravy, then carefully temper the sour cream by mixing it with a bit of hot gravy before adding it to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients, heating gently until warmed through but avoiding boiling. Taste the gravy and adjust salt as needed for a deliciously creamy finish.

Expert Tips for Chicken Swedish Meatballs

• Keep It Juicy: Use regular ground chicken instead of breasts to ensure your meatballs are tender and flavorful.

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

• Perfectly Browned: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning meatballs; it’s essential for getting that golden crust.

• Scrape the Bits: Leave the browned bits in the skillet after frying; they add amazing flavor to your gravy.

• Check Temperature: Always use a thermometer to ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and delicious Chicken Swedish Meatballs.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Swedish Meatballs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and seasonings as outlined and form them into balls. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the gravy ahead of time; simply refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, brown the meatballs and simmer them in the reheated gravy for that comforting, homemade taste without the last-minute rush. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious a meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Lighter Chicken Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy

When it comes to creating a complete meal, it’s all about finding the perfect companions for your warm, creamy chicken meatballs.

Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: They provide a rich, creamy base, soaking up every drop of gravy for ultimate comfort.
Tender Egg Noodles: The slight chewiness of egg noodles complements the meatballs beautifully, adding texture to the plate.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add a pop of color and a fresh crunch, balancing the creamy richness of the gravy.
Garlic Bread: A warm, toasty slice complements the savory flavors while adding an irresistible crunch to your meal.
Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart notes of cranberry sauce create a delightful contrast with the savory meatballs, making every bite sing.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a simple cucumber salad can cut through the richness, offering a light contrast.
Savory Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice, infused with herbs and spices, serves as a delightful backdrop, allowing the flavors of the meatballs to shine.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A glass of white wine smoothly complements the creamy gravy, enhancing the dining experience with its bright acidity.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with the warm flavors of baked apples and a crunchy topping to bring comfort full circle.

Chicken Swedish Meatballs Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize these Chicken Swedish Meatballs to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Ground Turkey: Swap in ground turkey for a slightly different flavor while keeping things light and healthy.
Herb Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the meatball mixture for a refreshing flavor boost. Fresh herbs can brighten each bite and elevate the dish beautifully!
Spicy Touch: For those who love heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a delightful kick.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat with vegan half & half and replace the egg with a flax egg for a lighter, vegan-friendly option.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate a bit of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or parmesan, into the meatball mix for added creaminess. Just imagine that melty goodness in every bite!
Add Vegetables: Finely grate or chop vegetables like zucchini or carrots into the meatball mixture to sneak in extra nutrition and moisture. Adding veggies also brings a delightful twist to the texture!
Different Gravy: Experiment with a mushroom gravy or even a curry sauce for a unique twist that adds depth and flavor to the dish.
Cauliflower Rice Alternative: Serve your meatballs over cauliflower rice instead of traditional options for a lower-carb meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Mix and match these ideas to create your ultimate comfort meal, and don’t forget to share your tasty variations with friends and family!

Storage Tips for Chicken Swedish Meatballs

Fridge: Store cooled Chicken Swedish Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick meal.

Freezer: Freeze meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the gravy from separating.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance, storing them separately. This allows you to enjoy your delicious homemade meal whenever you want!

Chicken Swedish Meatballs Recipe FAQs

What type of ground chicken should I use for these meatballs?
Absolutely! I recommend using regular ground chicken instead of chicken breast for a juicier and more flavorful result. The fat content in regular ground chicken helps to keep the meatballs tender and prevents them from drying out during cooking.

How long can I store leftover Chicken Swedish Meatballs in the fridge?
You’ll want to store your cooled Chicken Swedish Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This is perfect for those quick meals throughout the week when you want comfort food without the fuss! Just reheat gently for the best taste.

Can I freeze Chicken Swedish Meatballs, and how do I do it?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the gravy creamy.

What if my meatballs are falling apart during cooking?
If you’re having trouble with the meatballs falling apart, it’s likely due to either a lack of binding agents or overmixing. Make sure you’re incorporating the egg and breadcrumbs well, but don’t overwork the mixture as it can make the meat tough. If they’re very soft, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help them hold together.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Of course! To make gluten-free Chicken Swedish Meatballs, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatball mix and cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy. Make sure to check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free, and you’ll be all set to enjoy a delicious, lighter meal without gluten.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Good question! Chicken Swedish Meatballs are made with common ingredients, so if anyone has specific allergies, be sure to check for them, especially with the addition of sour cream or the use of breadcrumbs. For pets, avoid feeding them human food containing onions or garlic, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s always best to stick to their approved snacks!