These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are fluffy, tasty bites made with ground chicken and creamy ricotta cheese. They’re perfect as a snack or a main dish!
Making these meatballs is a breeze! I love serving them with spaghetti and a sprinkle of cheese on top—so satisfying! You’ll want to make these again and again! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps these meatballs light and tender. If you’re looking for something richer, you can substitute with ground turkey or even lean ground beef. Just remember, the flavor will change a bit!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta gives these meatballs a creamy texture. If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works in a pinch—blend it a little for a smoother consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for a more intense flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste and is great for vegan diets!
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness. If you don’t have it, fresh basil or spinach can be an excellent substitute, or even dried herbs if that’s all you’ve got at the moment.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Are Moist and Tender?
Keeping your meatballs moist and tender is key. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; your goal is to gently combine ingredients without making it tough.
- Using breadcrumbs is optional but helps absorb moisture. If you skip it, keep an eye on cooking time to prevent drying out.
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the outside while the inside cooks. If they are browning too fast, lower the heat!
Feel free to adjust cooking times based on your stove and skillet. Practice makes perfect with these meatballs!
Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for frying
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked creamy risotto or simple creamy rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, plan for around 30-35 minutes to have these delicious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, breadcrumbs (if you’re using them), egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything until just combined—this helps keep the meatballs tender, so be careful not to overwork the mixture.
2. Forming the Meatballs:
With wet hands (this prevents sticking!), scoop out the mixture and form it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go, making sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Cooking the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Give them a little space between each one to ensure they brown nicely. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown on one side.
4. Turning and Finishing Up:
Using tongs or a spatula, gently turn the meatballs over to cook the other side. Let them cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are browned and cooked all the way through. If they are getting too dark too quickly, feel free to lower the heat.
5. Serving the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Serve them warm on a lovely bed of creamy risotto or simple creamy rice. Don’t forget to drizzle any tasty pan juices over the top and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Ricotta Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It will still yield moist and flavorful meatballs; just keep in mind that the flavor might be a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can definitely use cottage cheese as a substitute. Just blend it a bit to achieve a smooth consistency, or use a soft cream cheese for a similar creamy texture in your meatballs!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs for longer storage; just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container and use them within 2-3 months. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Bake These Meatballs Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through. This method is a bit healthier and requires less monitoring compared to pan-frying!
