Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a light and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. The juicy chicken meatballs blended with creamy ricotta cheese and zesty lemon create a delightful contrast of flavors. Paired with garlic orzo, this meal is both hearty and refreshing.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s simple to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and offers a burst of taste with every bite. The combination of chicken and ricotta keeps it moist, while the lemon adds brightness. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy dish that your whole family will love!
How to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for baking or pan-frying
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
Directions
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking the meatballs.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking:
- For baking, place the meatballs on a greased baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. If pan-frying, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs until browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the orzo. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
- In a separate skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Drain the cooked orzo and add it to the skillet with garlic. Stir to combine and add salt, black pepper, and Parmesan if using.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Serve the meatballs on a bed of garlic orzo. You can top with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. This dish is great with a side salad or steamed veggies.
How to Store Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
Store leftover meatballs and garlic orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Make sure not to over-mix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference!
Variations
You can add some spinach or kale to the meatball mixture for extra nutrients. If you want a kick, try adding some red pepper flakes. You can also swap the orzo for rice or quinoa for a different texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground chicken. It will have a slightly different taste but will still be delicious.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just cook them when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your orzo is also gluten-free.
Enjoy your lovely Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo!
