Easy Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe: Juicy Homemade Magic

Tender baked chicken ricotta meatballs bring unexpected magic to your dinner table.

Italian cuisine whispers delightful secrets through these delicate spheres of comfort.

Creamy ricotta cheese infuses each bite with luxurious softness and surprising depth.

Lean protein meets Mediterranean charm in this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

Home cooks can easily craft these elegant meatballs without complicated techniques.

Fragrant herbs and gentle seasonings dance together, promising a memorable meal.

Savor each delectable morsel and watch everyone request seconds.

Why Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Is Full Of Comfort

• Quick Weeknight Winner: These baked chicken ricotta meatballs deliver restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour, making them perfect for busy families craving a delicious, hassle-free dinner.
• Healthier Comfort Food Option: Baking instead of frying cuts down on excess oil while keeping the meatballs tender and juicy, offering a lighter twist on traditional meatball recipes that doesn't compromise on taste.
• Versatile Meal Companion: Easily pair these meatballs with pasta, salad, or crusty bread, transforming them into a flexible dish that adapts to different dietary preferences and can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: The smooth ricotta cheese and mild chicken create a gentle flavor profile that appeals to picky eaters, ensuring even the most selective family members will enjoy this protein-packed meal.

Ingredients List For Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

• Ground Chicken: Lean and versatile protein base for tender, juicy meatballs.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds moisture and creates a soft, creamy texture to the meatballs.

• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a light texture and helps hold the meatballs together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps with binding.
• Fresh Parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal note and bright green color.

• Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor base.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the meatballs.
• Dried Oregano: Offers a classic Mediterranean herb flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.

Easy Instructions For Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Mixing Station

Grab a large mixing bowl. Clear some counter space for your delicious culinary adventure. Have all your ingredients ready to transform into incredible meatballs.

Step 2: Combine Meat Mixture

• Ground chicken
• Ricotta cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated parmesan
• Fresh parsley
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix ingredients thoroughly using your hands. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Shape Perfect Meatballs

Roll the meat mixture between your palms, creating uniform round balls. Place each meatball gently on the prepared baking sheet. Space them slightly apart to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F). Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Watch for a beautiful golden-brown exterior and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove meatballs from the oven. Let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in juiciness. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce, over pasta, or alongside a fresh salad.

Tips That Help With Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

• Perfect Baking Surface: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent meatballs from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Moisture Magic: Mix ricotta cheese with ground chicken to create incredibly tender, juicy meatballs that won't dry out during baking.
• Uniform Sizing Matters: Use a cookie scoop or wet hands to form consistent, evenly-sized meatballs for uniform cooking and professional presentation.
• Seasoning Secret: Gently fold herbs and spices into the meat mixture without overmixing to maintain a light, delicate texture and prevent tough meatballs.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe, perfectly cooked chicken meatballs without overcooking.

How To Store Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Easily

• Refrigerate leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep them moist by adding a splash of marinara sauce or chicken broth before sealing.
• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for convenient meals later.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat in the microwave or oven to maintain their tender texture.
• Always ensure meatballs reach 74°C (165°F) when reheating to guarantee food safety.

Great Sides For Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

• Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: The buttery, light white wine complements the creamy ricotta meatballs perfectly, cutting through the richness with its subtle acidity and refreshing finish.
• Serve Alongside Roasted Vegetable Medley: Colorful roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add vibrant nutrition and earthy flavors that enhance the delicate chicken meatballs.
• Match with Crusty Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted bread with garlic and herbs provides a crunchy texture contrast and helps soak up the delicious meatball juices, elevating the entire dining experience.
• Create a Fresh Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich, creamy meatballs, balancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe With A New Twist

• Mediterranean Magic: Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh oregano to the meatball mixture for a Greek-inspired flavor profile that transports your taste buds to the sunny Mediterranean coast.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Mix in diced jalapeños, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to give the meatballs a zesty kick that'll wake up your palate with bold southwestern notes.
• Herbal Garden Remix: Incorporate fresh chopped basil, parsley, and chives into the ricotta mixture, creating a bright and aromatic version that celebrates fresh herb flavors.
• Italian Truffle Elegance: Fold in a small amount of truffle oil and grated Parmesan cheese, elevating the meatballs with luxurious and sophisticated undertones that make an ordinary meal feel gourmet.

FAQs For Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

• What makes these meatballs different from traditional meatballs?

These meatballs use ricotta cheese, which makes them incredibly tender and moist compared to regular meatball recipes. The ricotta adds a creamy texture and light flavor that sets them apart from classic versions.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute for chicken. The ricotta will help keep the turkey meatballs just as soft and juicy, maintaining the same delicious texture and flavor profile.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, these meatballs are excellent for meal prep. They reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making them a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

• Do I need any special kitchen tools to make these meatballs?

No special equipment is required. You’ll just need a mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and basic measuring tools. A simple ice cream scoop can help create uniform meatballs, but it’s not necessary.

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mouthwatering “Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs” blend Italian comfort with lean protein and creamy richness. Hearty, flavorful spheres of deliciousness promise a delightful dinner that satisfies both comfort cravings and nutritional needs.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (500 g) ground chicken
• 1 large egg

Dairy:

• ½ cup (125 g) ricotta cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Seasonings and Additions:

• ½ cup (60 g) breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Serving Components:

• Olive oil spray (optional, for extra browning)
• Marinara sauce
• Spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• Fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare a baking surface by lining a sheet with parchment paper or applying a thin coat of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper until the ingredients are evenly distributed and create a uniform mixture.
3. Gently form the meat mixture into uniform, rounded balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they are compact but not overly compressed to maintain a tender texture.
4. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow consistent heat circulation and promote even browning.
5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan midway through cooking to guarantee uniform golden-brown coloration and complete internal cooking.
6. Verify the meatballs’ doneness by checking their internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) using a meat thermometer, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to consume.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the exterior to maintain a crisp, appetizing finish.
8. Serve the meatballs immediately with your preferred sauce, pasta, or as a standalone protein dish, garnishing with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Always choose high-quality ground chicken with a lean-to-fat ratio around 90/10 for tender, juicy meatballs that won’t dry out during baking.
• Mix ricotta cheese gently into the meat mixture to maintain a light, airy texture and prevent the meatballs from becoming too dense or compact.
• Use a small ice cream scoop or cookie scoop for uniform-sized meatballs that cook evenly and look professionally presented on the plate.
• For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the binding and texture of the meatballs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 309 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg