Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthier, lighter take on traditional meatballs without sacrificing flavor, then Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are the perfect dish for you. These tender, juicy meatballs are made with ground chicken, which is leaner than beef or pork but still packs plenty of flavor. What really sets them apart is the addition of creamy, herbed ricotta cheese, which adds richness and moisture to every bite.

These chicken meatballs are seasoned with classic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic, then baked to golden perfection. The herbed ricotta not only serves as a flavorful filling but also provides a unique twist that takes these meatballs to the next level. Whether served over pasta, on a sub roll, or as an appetizer, these Italian Chicken Meatballs are sure to impress with their savory taste and tender texture.

In this article, we’ll dive into why Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are a must-try dish, provide a detailed recipe to make them at home, and offer tips and variations for customizing this flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Made with ground chicken instead of traditional beef or pork, these meatballs are a lighter, leaner alternative, without sacrificing flavor.
• Herbed Ricotta: The addition of herbed ricotta cheese not only makes the meatballs incredibly tender but also adds a creamy, flavorful richness that sets them apart from regular meatballs.
• Full of Flavor: With a blend of classic Italian seasonings like garlic, basil, and oregano, these meatballs are bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavors.
• Versatile: Serve these meatballs in a variety of ways—over spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or as a party appetizer. They can be adapted to suit any meal or occasion.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet feel, these meatballs are simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour (15 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for baking, 15 minutes for resting)
• Servings: This recipe makes about 20 meatballs, serving 4-6 people depending on portion size.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 5 meatballs per serving): Calories: 350, Protein: 35g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 20g.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base for the meatballs. You can use white or dark meat ground chicken, or a mixture of both for added flavor.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Provides structure and helps bind the meatballs together. Use regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs based on preference.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor that complements the Italian herbs.
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and freshness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that gives the meatballs a savory, Mediterranean taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another classic herb that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: For seasoning the meatballs.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a slight kick.
• 1 large egg: To help bind the ingredients together and give the meatballs structure.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For greasing the baking sheet and drizzling on top of the meatballs for a golden finish.

Herbed Ricotta:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese: The creamy base for the herbed ricotta. Full-fat or part-skim ricotta both work well.
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped: Adds a fresh, herby flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For color and additional herby freshness.
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the savory richness of the ricotta.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a mild garlic flavor without the raw taste of fresh garlic.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: To season the ricotta mixture.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For flavor balance.

Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade marinara for extra flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: To season the sauce with Italian herbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: To add a subtle depth to the sauce.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat (optional).

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil or parsley: For garnish and a pop of color.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: To sprinkle on top before serving.

First Step: PREPARE THE HERBED RICOTTA FILLING

1. Mix the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Set Aside: Set the herbed ricotta mixture aside while you prepare the meatball mixture. The flavors will meld together as you work on the meatballs.

Second Step: PREPARE THE MEATBALL MIXTURE

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as that can result in tough meatballs.
2. Form the Meatballs: Scoop out a tablespoon of the meatball mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Make a small indentation in the center of each meatball with your thumb, then add a teaspoon of the herbed ricotta mixture into the indentation. Gently pinch the sides of the meatball together to seal in the ricotta filling, then roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
3. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Place the prepared meatballs on the baking sheet, leaving space between each meatball.

Third Step: BAKE THE MEATBALLS

1. Bake: Drizzle a little olive oil over the meatballs for extra crispiness, then place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
2. Rest: Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meatballs remain tender.

Fourth Step: PREPARE THE MARINARA SAUCE

1. Heat the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Fifth Step: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

1. Serve with Sauce: Once the meatballs have rested, pour a small amount of marinara sauce onto the plate or in a serving dish. Arrange the meatballs on top of the sauce, then spoon more sauce over the meatballs.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or as a standalone dish.

How to Serve Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta

These Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

1. Over Pasta

Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a classic Italian meal. The rich marinara sauce and tender meatballs make a perfect pairing with pasta.

2. In a Meatball Sub

For a quick lunch or dinner, place the meatballs in a sub roll, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and toast in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. As an Appetizer

These meatballs also make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings. Serve them with toothpicks or skewers and a side of marinara dipping sauce for guests to enjoy.

4. With a Side Salad

Balance the richness of the meatballs with a simple green salad, like arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives.

Recipe Variations

While the Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta recipe is already packed with flavor, there are many ways to personalize it to your liking:

1. Make Them Spicy

Add a finely chopped jalapeño or red chili flakes to the meatball mixture or the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Add Vegetables

For extra nutrition, consider adding finely grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the meatball mixture. This will add moisture and vitamins without

compromising the flavor.

3. Use Ground Turkey

If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken. Turkey has a slightly different flavor profile but will work just as well in this recipe.

4. Make Them Gluten-Free

To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground oats.

Tips for Perfect Italian Chicken Meatballs

1. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Moisture is Key: The ricotta helps keep the meatballs moist, so don’t skip this step. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more ricotta or a splash of milk.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest the Meatballs: Let the meatballs rest after baking to lock in their juices and keep them tender.

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Conclusion

Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, featuring lean chicken, flavorful herbs, and creamy ricotta filling. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of Italian flavors in every bite!