Introduction
Welcome to the world of comfort food! Nothing quite says “homemade love” like a plate of tender Chicken Ricotta Meatballs. These meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic, combining the lean goodness of chicken with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, they are sure to bring warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your family’s faces. Serve them atop a bed of pasta, or on their own with some sauce for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). The ingredients should create a colorful and fragrant mixture!
- Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined. It’s okay if it’s a little sticky; that just means they’ll be nice and moist!
- Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, rolling them between your palms. Feel free to let your inner chef shine—make them as round and plump as you like!
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and a beautiful golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat, letting it warm through and fill your kitchen with its wonderful aroma.
- Once your meatballs are ready, carefully transfer them to the skillet with the marinara sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes, soaking up all that delicious flavor.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the herbs and spices based on your preferences—basil and thyme also work beautifully in this recipe!
- If you’re making these in advance, you can prepare the meatballs, freeze them, and bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pair these meatballs with spaghetti for a classic dish or serve them with crusty bread for dipping in that delightful marinara sauce.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect meatball is all about the right balance of ingredients. Ensure you don’t overmix the meat and other ingredients to keep them tender. Baking rather than frying cooks them evenly and allows for a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor. The simmering step in marinara enriches their taste as they soak up the sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and has a similar texture, with just a slight variation in flavor.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for a couple of months!
- Are these meatballs gluten-free? To make them gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with a suitable gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
The journey to a hearty meal ends here with these delicious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs! They are family-friendly, easy to prepare, and utterly scrumptious. Whether it’s a cozy weekday dinner or a special gathering, they are sure to impress. Enjoy the comforting embrace of homemade goodness with every bite!