Name: Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: 16 Irresistible Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup finely chopped onion; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Olive oil spray for baking

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Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. These meatballs are soft, juicy, and oven-baked to golden perfection, making them a delightful option for any meal. With lean ground chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and a hint of parmesan, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or light entertaining. You can serve them with pasta, in wraps, or enjoy them on their own. They are freezer-friendly and family-approved, ensuring that you have a go-to recipe at your fingertips.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs offer numerous benefits that make them a staple in my kitchen. Firstly, they are healthy baked chicken meatballs, packed with protein and low in fat, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Secondly, the combination of ricotta cheese and ground chicken creates a unique, moist texture that is simply irresistible. Thirdly, they are an excellent choice for meal prep, as they can be made in advance and stored in the freezer. Additionally, they are versatile and can be enjoyed in various dishes, from spaghetti to subs. Lastly, they are a family-friendly option that even picky eaters will love, ensuring everyone is satisfied at the dinner table.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound ground chicken
½ cup ricotta cheese
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil spray for baking

How to Make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Finely mince the garlic and onion. Chop the parsley.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 4: Shape mixture into 16–20 even-sized meatballs using your hands or a scoop.
Step 5: Place meatballs on the baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil.
Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve warm with marinara, over pasta, or in sandwiches.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

These meatballs are freezer-friendly, making them perfect for meal prep.
Perfect for weeknight dinners and can be easily reheated.
Try with pasta, in wraps, or on their own for a versatile meal.
To enhance flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil.
Ensure not to overmix the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

These tasty meatballs can be served in various delightful ways. One of my favorites is to pair them with spaghetti and marinara sauce, creating a classic Italian dish that is both comforting and delicious. Alternatively, they can be used in sub sandwiches topped with melted cheese for a savory treat. For a lighter option, serve them on a bed of greens or in a wrap with fresh vegetables. These juicy baked chicken ricotta meatballs make any meal special!

How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

To store your Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

The key to perfect Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs lies in the balance of ingredients. Using fresh ricotta cheese helps maintain moisture, while being careful not to overmix ensures tenderness. Additionally, baking them at the right temperature allows for a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Can I make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! These chicken meatballs with ricotta cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply prepare the meatballs, freeze them uncooked, and bake them fresh when you need them. This makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you measure ingredients accurately and avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to tough meatballs. Also, make sure to bake them until they are just cooked through to prevent dryness.

Variations of Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations of Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: Add spinach or kale for a nutritious boost, experiment with different cheeses like feta for a tangy flavor, or use ground turkey for a leaner option. These healthy baked chicken meatballs are versatile and can cater to various dietary needs, including gluten-free or low-carb diets.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: 16 Irresistible Balls - Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try these Korean BBQ Meatballs for a different flavor profile. You can also explore Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a hearty meal or Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze for a sweet treat.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs: 16 Irresistible Balls

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16-20 meatballs 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A healthy and flavorful twist on a classic, these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are soft, juicy, and oven-baked to golden perfection.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Finely mince the garlic and onion. Chop the parsley.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape mixture into 16–20 even-sized meatballs using your hands or a scoop.
Place meatballs on the baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Serve warm with marinara, over pasta, or in sandwiches.