Introduction
Welcome to a comforting culinary adventure! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Chicken Ricotta Meatballs — a dish that balances the lightness of ground chicken with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. These meatballs are not only easy to make but also pack a punch of flavor, perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy meatball, smothered in warm marinara sauce and topped with fragrant basil. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for achieving that lovely golden brown color on your meatballs.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix — we want tender meatballs!
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Feel the texture; they should be moist but hold together well.
- Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps them bake evenly and keeps cleanup a breeze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have taken on a beautiful golden hue.
- While the meatballs are baking, pour marinara sauce into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
- Once the meatballs are out of the oven, gently add them to the marinara sauce and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy with pasta, on a sub, or simply on their own for a delightful meal.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, you can mix in some red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat!
- These meatballs freeze wonderfully. Make a big batch and store extras in an airtight container for busy weeknights.
- Feel free to substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Cooking Techniques
When making meatballs, it’s important to handle the mixture gently to maintain a tender texture. Mixing too aggressively can lead to dense meatballs. Also, using a cookie scoop can help ensure uniform sizes, leading to even cooking. The baking method gives these meatballs a healthier twist compared to frying, while still locking in flavor.
FAQ
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake or freeze them for future meals.
What can I serve with Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, crusty bread, or a crisp salad. They also make a fantastic filling for meatball subs!
Conclusion
There you have it — a simple yet luxurious recipe for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs that the whole family will adore. With their rich flavors and delightful textures, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy the process of cooking and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones. Bon appétit!