Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are a warm and cozy dinner option that’s easy to prepare, tender, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for serving with pasta, in a sub roll, or alongside a salad, this dish is both satisfying and healthy. Combining lean ground chicken, Italian spices, and creamy herbed ricotta, it delivers a taste reminiscent of classic Italian favorites like chicken parmesan and lasagna.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb. ground chicken (96% lean)
½ cup shredded parmesan
½ white onion, diced
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
⅛ tsp red pepper flakes
Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Fresh basil (for garnish)

For the Herbed Ricotta:

1 cup ricotta (whole milk preferred)
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried parsley

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F and spray an oven-safe skillet or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Herbed Ricotta:
- Mix ricotta, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and parsley in a bowl. Set aside.
Make the Meatballs:
- Combine ground chicken, parmesan, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly using your hands.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and set aside.
Bake the Meatballs:
- Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared skillet or baking dish.
- Place the meatballs on top and spoon extra marinara sauce over them.
- Add dollops of herbed ricotta around the pan.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximation)

Calories: 210–250 kcal
Protein: 20–25 g
Fat: 10–15 g
Carbohydrates: 6–10 g
Fiber: 1–2 g

The Origins of Italian Chicken Meatballs

Meatballs, or “polpette” as they are traditionally known in Italy, have a long history rooted in Italian culinary culture. Unlike the meatballs commonly found in American-Italian cuisine, Italian meatballs are often smaller, simpler, and served without pasta. This recipe adapts the traditional Italian approach, using ground chicken instead of the more common beef or pork, and incorporates herbed ricotta for a creamy, luxurious element. The addition of ricotta adds a modern twist while staying true to the rustic and comforting flavors of classic Italian dishes.

Why Use Chicken for Meatballs?

Chicken meatballs are a lighter alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Ground chicken absorbs the seasonings and herbs exceptionally well, allowing the Italian spices to shine. Additionally, chicken provides a lean protein source, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of parmesan and breadcrumbs ensures that the meatballs remain moist and tender, even after baking.

The Role of Herbed Ricotta

The herbed ricotta in this recipe acts as a creamy complement to the savory meatballs. Ricotta cheese, widely used in Italian cooking, has a mild flavor and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce. By mixing the ricotta with garlic, basil, oregano, and parsley, it becomes a flavorful and aromatic addition to the dish. The ricotta adds richness and complexity, creating layers of flavor with every bite.

Versatility in Serving

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. These Italian chicken meatballs can be served in multiple ways, depending on the occasion:

With Pasta: Toss the meatballs and marinara sauce over spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian dinner.
In a Sub Roll: Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, add extra marinara and ricotta, and top with melted mozzarella for a hearty sandwich.
As a Salad Topper: Serve the meatballs alongside a fresh arugula or spinach salad for a lighter, low-carb option.
On Their Own: Enjoy the meatballs as an appetizer or main dish, garnished with fresh basil and additional parmesan.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish provides a well-balanced combination of macronutrients:

Protein: Lean ground chicken and ricotta are excellent sources of high-quality protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Healthy Fats: Parmesan and ricotta contain beneficial fats that promote satiety and flavor.
Carbohydrates: Breadcrumbs and marinara sauce provide a moderate amount of carbs, making this dish energy-rich without being overly heavy.
Fiber: Adding a side salad or pairing the meatballs with whole-grain pasta can boost the fiber content, promoting better digestion.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Meatballs

Moisture Matters: Ground chicken can sometimes dry out during cooking. The egg, parmesan, and breadcrumbs in this recipe work together to retain moisture, ensuring tender meatballs.
Uniform Size: Shape the meatballs to be uniform in size for even cooking. Using a cookie scoop can simplify this process.
Flavor Boost: Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes before shaping to let the flavors meld.
Marinara Quality: Use a high-quality marinara sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, to enhance the overall taste.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Wines: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the rich flavors of the meatballs and marinara sauce.
Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh caprese salad balance the flavors and textures.
Desserts: End the meal with a light dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta for a true Italian dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs (with or without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

Conclusion

Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta offers a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and versatility. Whether served over pasta, in a sandwich, or as a standalone dish, it provides comfort and elegance in every bite. The herbed ricotta adds a creamy and flavorful touch, elevating the dish to a new level of indulgence. With its nutritious ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Its adaptability and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a must-have in your collection of Italian-inspired dishes. Add it to your menu today and enjoy a taste of Italy at home!

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