Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Then look no further! These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are the perfect solution. Packed with protein and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're feeding the family or impressing guests. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, and it's surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken breast
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (part-skim for a healthier option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Your favorite pasta or vegetable for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs. Gently fold in the bread crumbs until just combined.
Step 2: Shaping the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serving Your Delicious Creation
Serve the chicken ricotta meatballs immediately over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or zucchini noodles. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gentle mixing is key.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and good quality ricotta cheese will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your meatballs.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will steam the meatballs instead of browning them. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee they are fully cooked.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small piece of mozzarella or provolone cheese to the center of each meatball before cooking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Lemon Herb Meatballs: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the meatball mixture, along with extra herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per meatball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 4-6 grams
This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, and its healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free indulgence. The best recipes are often the simplest, and these chicken ricotta meatballs are a prime example of delicious and easy food recipes that anyone can master. Enjoy!