Description
These Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Made with ground chicken, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, they are baked to golden perfection and optionally simmered in marinara sauce for a delicious Italian-inspired main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking or frying)
- Marinara sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Olive Oil: Lightly brush or spray the tops of the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and remain moist during baking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- Optional Simmering: For extra flavor and moisture, transfer the cooked meatballs to a skillet with warm marinara sauce and simmer for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve these meatballs hot with pasta, inside sandwiches, or as an appetizer paired with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Ricotta cheese keeps the meatballs tender and moist.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for convenience.
- To fry instead of bake, heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet and cook meatballs in batches, turning to brown all sides and cook through.
- Using fresh herbs like parsley enhances the flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
