Description
These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are a lighter, yet deeply satisfying alternative to traditional meatballs. They are quick, easy to make, and packed with lean protein, making them a wholesome family meal. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup Grated Onion
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce (for serving)
- 8 ounces Pasta (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, grated onion, chopped parsley or basil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring some space between each meatball for even cooking.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the baked chicken ricotta meatballs warm, tossed in marinara sauce, over pasta, or as appetizers.
Notes
- Do not overmix the ingredients to ensure tender meatballs.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- A meat thermometer is recommended to check for doneness.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- For dairy-free options, use dairy-free ricotta and nutritional yeast.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Add finely chopped spinach or red pepper flakes for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg