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Ingredients
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Meatballs
Vodka Sauce
To Serve
Method
Meatballs
Prep mixture
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs with milk for 5 minutes until softened. In a large mixing bowl combine ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs (with any remaining milk), grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined — avoid overworking to keep meatballs tender.
Form meatballs
Using wet hands or a 1.5-tablespoon scoop, form the mixture into uniform meatballs about 1 to 1 1/4 inches (makes ~18–20). Place on a parchment-lined tray while you heat the pan.
Sear meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. When shimmering, add meatballs in a single layer without crowding. Brown on all sides, turning carefully, about 6–8 minutes total — they do not need to be cooked through, just nicely browned. Work in batches and transfer browned meatballs to a plate.
Vodka Sauce
Aromatics
In the same skillet (wipe out any burnt bits but keep fond), reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced shallot and sauté until translucent, 2–3 minutes. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze and simmer
Carefully add the vodka and cook 1–2 minutes to let the alcohol burn off and to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Add the tomato purée/crushed tomatoes, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 8–10 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate flavor.
Finish sauce
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. If using, stir in torn basil leaves.
Simmer with meatballs
Return the browned meatballs to the sauce, nestling them into the liquid. Cover and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and sauce is thickened. Spoon sauce over meatballs occasionally to coat evenly.