Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

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Indulge in a comforting yet elevated dish with these creamy Chicken Ricotta Meatballs. Perfectly tender and packed with flavor, these meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Paired with a rich, velvety sauce over a bed of pasta, they make for a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Creamy Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Chicken Ricotta Meatballs offer a delicious way to elevate your usual weeknight dinner. The addition of ricotta cheese makes the meatballs incredibly moist and light, while the garlic and herbs infuse them with layers of flavor. Nestled in a creamy, spinach-infused sauce, they’re a dish that’s as comforting as it is luxurious.

Whether you’re preparing this for a cozy family meal or to impress dinner guests, this recipe is sure to delight. It’s also straightforward to make, so even beginner cooks can achieve amazing results!

Ingredients for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

To create these irresistibly tender and flavorful meatballs, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients for the meatballs and the creamy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Chicken – A lean and versatile protein that forms the base of these meatballs.
• Ricotta Cheese – Adds moisture and a creamy texture, keeping the meatballs soft and light.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan enhances the flavor with its salty, nutty taste.
• Egg – Helps bind the meatball mixture together.
• Breadcrumbs – Provides structure while keeping the meatballs tender. Use panko for a lighter texture.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a burst of savory flavor.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley brightens up the dish with a hint of freshness.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for a perfectly balanced flavor.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• Butter – Forms the base of the sauce for a rich, silky texture.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious, creamy consistency that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a cheesy richness to the sauce.
• Fresh Spinach – Wilts into the sauce for a pop of color and earthy flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Balances the creaminess and enhances the savory flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – For seasoning the sauce perfectly.

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How to Make Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this comforting dish with ease:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sear the meatballs until golden brown on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet, as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Meatballs

Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted. Return the seared meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the chicken ricotta meatballs and creamy sauce over a bed of cooked pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!

How Long to Cook Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

The cooking time for these meatballs ensures they’re juicy and cooked through without drying out. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Searing – Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side in a hot skillet. This gives them a golden-brown crust and locks in moisture.
• Simmering in Sauce – Let the meatballs simmer in the creamy sauce for 10-12 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the meatballs are fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Keep an eye on the sauce while the meatballs simmer. If it thickens too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they store beautifully and taste just as delicious when reheated. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator – Transfer the meatballs and sauce to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezer – For longer storage, place the cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overmix – Gently mix the meatball ingredients to avoid a dense texture. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
• Even Sizing – Form meatballs of uniform size so they cook evenly. A cookie scoop works well for this.
• Check the Sauce – Keep an eye on the sauce while simmering. If it reduces too much, stir in extra cream or chicken broth to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Customize the Flavors – Experiment with adding different herbs, spices, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
• Pairing Suggestions – Serve these meatballs with pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a lighter option. A side of crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce!

Save this recipe for your next cozy meal and watch it become a family favorite!

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