Discover the Best Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Today!

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. These meatballs are incredibly tender, packed with flavor, and smothered in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a new and exciting dish to add to your repertoire, this recipe is a must-try.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

The key to making these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs truly exceptional is the high-quality ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this delectable dish:

For the Meatballs:

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 6 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spinach Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

To make these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow instructions for creating these mouthwatering Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Form the meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs: Drizzle the meatballs with a bit of olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare the sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
6. Make the Alfredo sauce: Add the heavy cream, milk, nutmeg, and Parmesan to the skillet. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
7. Combine the meatballs and sauce: Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs with the creamy sauce.
8. Serve and enjoy: Serve the Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired. Pair them with your favorite pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

To ensure your Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs turn out deliciously tender and flavorful, here are a few helpful tips:

• Choose the right ground chicken: Opt for ground chicken with a higher fat content (around 15-20%) to keep the meatballs moist and juicy.
• Substitute with other meats: If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or even lean ground beef in place of the chicken.
• Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to play with the spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Prevent dry meatballs: Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture, as this can lead to dense, dry meatballs.
• Proper storage: Store any leftover Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the Spinach Alfredo Sauce is a delightful pairing with these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this versatile dish:

• Alternative sauces: Try serving the meatballs with a classic marinara sauce or a vibrant pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Meal pairings: Serve the meatballs over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• Vegetable additions: For an extra nutritional boost, you can sauté additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to mix into the Alfredo sauce.
• Meal prep: These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are perfect for meal prepping. Cook a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Beef and Italian Sausage Rigatoni
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms
• Zesty Turkey Ricotta Meatballs

FAQs about Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

How long do chicken meatballs take to cook in the pan?

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs typically take 20-25 minutes to cook in the oven, depending on the size of the meatballs. The meatballs are done when they are golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

How does ricotta change the meatball texture?

The addition of ricotta cheese in these meatballs helps to create a tender, moist, and delicate texture. The ricotta binds the meatball mixture together while adding a creamy, rich element that balances the savory flavors.

How to know if chicken meatballs are done?

The best way to ensure your Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F. You can also check for a golden-brown exterior and firm, cooked-through texture.

What is the binding agent for chicken meatballs?

In this recipe, the binding agent for the Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs is a combination of the ricotta cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs. The ricotta adds moisture and creaminess, the egg helps to bind the mixture, and the breadcrumbs provide structure and texture.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful and comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With their tender texture, flavorful seasoning, and creamy Alfredo sauce, these meatballs are a must-try recipe. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or as part of a special meal, your taste buds are in for a real treat. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs!

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