Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Recipe
Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken meatballs and creamy ricotta cheese, all brightened by fresh lemon zest. This recipe not only tastes fantastic but is also easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice if you’re looking for something flavorful yet simple to prepare. The combination of the lemon and garlic gives a fresh taste, while the ricotta keeps the meatballs moist and tender. Plus, serving the meatballs over garlic orzo makes for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the meatballs to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Cook orzo according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the meatballs, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add cooked orzo, fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Serve the meatballs over the garlic orzo and garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan, if desired.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Plate the meatballs on top of a bed of garlic orzo for a delicious presentation. You can sprinkle extra fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
- Ensure you do not overmix the meatball mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Just mix until combined.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if desired.
Variation
You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrients. Alternatively, switch out the orzo for any other pasta you prefer, like penne or spaghetti.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing the ingredients.Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for a day or two before cooking.What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with cream cheese or cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Enjoy making this delicious Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo recipe and impress your family and friends!
