These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are soft, juicy, and packed with flavor! They mix tender ground chicken with creamy ricotta and tasty herbs. A perfect dinner option!
Making these meatballs is a breeze! I like to serve them with spaghetti, but they’re wonderful on their own too. Just try not to eat them all before dinner—I’ve been there! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: The base of this recipe is ground chicken, which keeps the meatballs light and tender. If you want a richer flavor, mix in some ground turkey or even lean ground beef.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess and moisture to the meatballs. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, cottage cheese blended smooth can work as a substitute. I love using whole milk ricotta for its rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding grated Parmesan gives a nice salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want something bolder. Nutritional yeast is a fun vegan substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: Italian breadcrumbs help bind everything together. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. I’ve also crushed crackers or oats when I ran out—those worked surprisingly well!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the meatballs. If you don’t have parsley, try chopped basil or oregano for a different take.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Meatballs?
Cooking the meatballs evenly can be tricky. Here’s a simple method to get it just right:
- First, mix your ingredients gently to avoid tough meatballs. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs.
- Shape them about 1 to 1.5 inches wide for even cooking. Uniform size ensures they all cook at the same rate.
- When frying, use medium heat and cook in batches. Crowding the pan leads to steaming instead of browning.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Following these tips will reward you with the soft, juicy meatballs you’re aiming for! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Delicious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Creamy risotto or pasta (optional)
- Toasted bread slice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30-35 minutes. You’ll enjoy making these delicious meatballs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spatula to mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Once your mixture is ready, form it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to help with this step. A little bit of water on your hands can prevent the mixture from sticking.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches (this will help them brown evenly) and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, gently turning them until they are nice and browned. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Warm the Sauce (Optional):
If you’re using marinara sauce, you can warm it up in the same skillet after removing the meatballs. This will add a bit of flavor to the sauce. Once warmed, add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet and coat them with the sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your delicious meatballs over creamy risotto or pasta, if desired. Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a lovely finish.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Don’t forget to add a slice of toasted bread on the side for some extra crunch! Enjoy your tasty chicken ricotta meatballs with family or friends!
These meatballs are sure to be a hit, featuring a lovely flavor combination and a delightful texture. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield tender meatballs. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before cooking.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic over pasta or creamy risotto, as mentioned in the recipe. They also pair wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of marinara to keep them moist.