Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo

Introduction

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the zest of lemon with the tenderness of chicken and creamy ricotta. This meal is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The meatballs are juicy, and the garlic orzo adds a wonderful flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s simple to make and requires only a few ingredients. Second, it is a lighter option compared to traditional meatballs, thanks to the ground chicken and ricotta cheese. Finally, the dish is packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
1/2 cup (120 g) ricotta cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon (about 2 Tbsp juice)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 Tbsp olive oil (for cooking meatballs)
1 cup (180 g) orzo pasta
2 Tbsp unsalted butter (for orzo)
2 cloves garlic, minced (for orzo)
2 cups (480 ml) low‑sodium chicken broth (for orzo)
Optional garnish: lemon wedges and extra parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, and season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
With damp hands, form the mixture into 16 meatballs (about 1½ in / 3½ cm each) and place them on the prepared sheet.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Transfer the skillet (or move meatballs on the sheet) to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
Meanwhile, cook the orzo: melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Add orzo and stir another minute until lightly toasted.
Pour in chicken broth, bring it to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Serve meatballs over garlic orzo. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are best served warm, right after cooking. Place the garlic orzo on a plate, and top it with the meatballs. You can add extra parsley and a wedge of lemon for decoration and a burst of flavor. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. It’s best to store the meatballs and orzo separately to keep them fresh.

Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; it will make them tough.
Try using whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
You can add more herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor if you like.

Variations

Feel free to customize these meatballs by adding ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture. You can also serve them with different types of pasta or grains instead of orzo.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a substitute for ground chicken. It will give a similar taste but may be slightly leaner.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. What can I serve as a side dish?
These meatballs pair well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a light salad. You can also serve them with a light sauce if desired.