Juicy Chicken Meatballs with Gravy

This easy homemade dinner is one of my go-tos when I want something cozy, filling, and budget-friendly. The chicken meatballs are soft and juicy, the pan gravy is quick but full of flavor, and the mashed potatoes underneath soak up every drop. It’s simple comfort food made with everyday ingredients — and one of those meals the whole family happily eats.

Juicy chicken meatballs with golden pan gravy served over creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the chicken meatballs

• 250g ground chicken (mince)

• 1 small onion, grated

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 slice of bread, soaked in 2 tablespoons milk and mashed

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for frying)

• A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: grated Parmesan for extra flavor

For the gravy

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (or use leftover oil from the meatballs)

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1 cup chicken broth

• ½ teaspoon soy sauce (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste — reduce salt if using soy sauce

Mashed potatoes — you can use your favorite version or my go-to mashed potato recipe

Instructions

In a bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix — it helps them stay tender.

With wet hands, shape into small meatballs. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Let them sit out for about 10 minutes before cooking so they don’t go into the hot pan too cold.

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on the outside and cooked through inside. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

In the same pan, add butter or oil. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking well to avoid lumps. Add soy sauce if using.

Let the gravy simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

To serve, spread mashed potatoes on each plate. Place the meatballs on top, then pour over the warm gravy. Serve immediately while everything is hot and cozy.