Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Introduction
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful dish that your whole family will love! They are tender, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make these meatballs because they are packed with protein and cheese, making them super tasty. Plus, they are simple to prepare and can be a great weeknight meal or a weekend treat. Everyone will enjoy them!
How to Make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Heat the marinara sauce in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve with fresh basil on top.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
These meatballs are delicious served over pasta or with a side of garlic bread. You can also enjoy them with a simple salad for a light meal. Just add a sprinkle of fresh basil for extra flavor!
How to Store Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
To store, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will be good for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Make sure to mix the ingredients well to keep the meatballs from falling apart.
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized meatballs.
- Don’t skip the fresh basil; it adds a nice touch!
Variation
Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef if you prefer. You can also add chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, using store-bought sauce can save time and still be delicious!
2. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months.
3. Are these meatballs gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.