Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a comforting blend of juicy ground chicken and creamy ricotta cheese, seasoned with aromatic herbs for a delightful family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g ground chicken Tender and moist, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Creamy and rich, adds moisture and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Nutty and salty, elevating the dish's flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Adds texture; use regular or gluten-free as needed.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Bright and aromatic, brings freshness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil Fragrant and flavorful, enhancing the overall taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Pungent and savory, a must in any good meatball.
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion Sweet and aromatic, for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a gentle kick.
- 1 spray Olive oil spray (for baking sheet) Ensures easy clean-up and prevents sticking.
- 1 cup optional: marinara or cream sauce for serving Adds a comforting aspect to the meal.
- to taste Fresh basil or parsley for garnish For a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly spray with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, basil, minced garlic, diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
- Scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into meatballs approximately 2 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced evenly.
Cooking
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a perfect golden crust.
- If desired, warm the meatballs in marinara or cream sauce before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
Ensure your ground chicken is moist but not overly wet to maintain the meatball's integrity. Use a cookie scoop for uniformity in size.