Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta are the perfect warm and cozy dinner that you can whip up with ease. These meatballs are tender, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether served over pasta, in a roll, or alongside a fresh salad, this dish brings comfort to any meal. The standout feature is the rich herbed ricotta that elevates the classic meatball experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, these meatballs come together quickly.
- Flavor-Packed: Each bite bursts with flavor from herbs and spices, thanks to the herbed ricotta.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a main course or as part of a hearty sandwich or salad.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using ground chicken makes these meatballs lighter without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish: Essential for baking the meatballs evenly while keeping all the flavors intact.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows easy mixing of all ingredients without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor in every batch of meatballs.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta:
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- ½ cup shredded parmesan
- ½ of a white onion, diced
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes
For the Herbed Ricotta
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried parsley
For Serving
- Marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How to Make Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an oven-safe skillet or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Herbed Ricotta
In a bowl, combine:
1 cup ricotta
1 garlic clove (minced)
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried parsley
Mix thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine:
1 lb. ground chicken
½ cup shredded parmesan
½ of a white onion (diced)
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 egg
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
⅛ tsp red pepper flakes
Using your hands, mix until well combined. Form into approximately one-inch balls and set aside.
Step 4: Bake
Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared skillet or baking dish. Place the meatballs on top of the sauce and spoon some marinara over them for added flavor. Add dollops of your herbed ricotta around each meatball. Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve!
Once baked, top your Italian chicken meatballs with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy them hot!
How to Serve Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta are versatile and can be served in various ways for a comforting meal. Whether you prefer them on pasta, in a sandwich, or paired with a salad, these meatballs are sure to please!
On Pasta
- Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese for added flavor.
In a Sub Roll
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll for a hearty sandwich.
- Drizzle with marinara and top with melted mozzarella cheese.
With a Side Salad
- Pair the meatballs with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
- Include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
As an Appetizer
- Serve smaller meatballs as finger food at parties.
- Offer toothpicks and extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- For a gluten-free option, serve the meatballs over rice or quinoa.
- Garnish with herbs to enhance the dish’s presentation.
How to Perfect Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
To ensure your Italian chicken meatballs are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken add more flavor to your meatballs.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Chill before baking: Letting the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
- Experiment with spices: Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences for unique flavors.
- Rest before serving: Allowing the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking enhances their juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
Serving side dishes alongside your Italian chicken meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables bring nutrition and flavor to your plate; try zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Caesar Salad: This crunchy salad complements the tender meatballs nicely; add croutons and parmesan for extra texture.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a comforting base that pairs well with the savory flavors of the meatballs.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and color, making it an elegant choice.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a hearty side that meshes well with marinara sauces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the chicken mixture well. Always adjust salt and spices to enhance flavor.
- Overmixing the meat mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for tender results.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking at the right temperature is crucial. Ensure your oven is preheated to 400 degrees for even cooking.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect cooking time. Let your chicken and eggs sit at room temperature before mixing.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a delightful touch. Always garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
- Place meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in a microwave-safe dish for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of marinara for moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta.
How do I make Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta?
To make them, mix ground chicken with parmesan, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, and spices. Form into balls and bake in marinara sauce topped with herbed ricotta.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe without changing the overall flavor.
What can I serve alongside these meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with pasta, crusty bread, or a light salad. They’re versatile and fit many meal styles!
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Italian chicken meatballs with herbed ricotta are a cozy meal that everyone will love. They’re easy to customize—add veggies or switch up spices as you wish! Try this heartwarming recipe tonight for a delightful dinner experience.
Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta
Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. These tender and flavorful meatballs are made with lean ground chicken, seasoned to perfection, and complemented by a creamy herbed ricotta topping. Whether served over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these meatballs will quickly become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup shredded parmesan
- ½ white onion, diced
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- Italian seasoning and spices for flavoring
- 1 cup ricotta for the herbed topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare an oven-safe skillet or baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with minced garlic and herbs; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, parmesan cheese, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, and spices. Gently mix until combined and form into meatballs.
- Spread marinara sauce in the prepared dish. Place meatballs on top and add dollops of herbed ricotta. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve hot with fresh basil as garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
