Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Looking for a dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo is the perfect recipe! This delightful meal combines juicy chicken meatballs with creamy orzo pasta, spinach, and a zesty lemon sauce. It’s not only tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The creamy sauce and tender meatballs make it satisfying, while the lemon adds a refreshing twist. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less clean-up for you! You’ll love how quickly you can put this flavorful dish together for your family or guests.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything just until combined, then form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the orzo and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped spinach. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then return the cooked meatballs to the skillet. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
Serve the creamy orzo and meatballs hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
This dish is best served warm right from the skillet. You can garnish it with more grated Parmesan and a bit of lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some toasted garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.
Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
- Ensure that the meatballs are cooked thoroughly by checking that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste—add more for a tangier flavor.
- Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo to make the dish healthier.
Variation
If you want a different spin, you can swap the ground chicken for turkey or even beef. Adding different vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can also enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs instead?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and cook with the orzo and sauce when you’re ready to eat.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy and cheesy flavors appeal to kids, and it’s a great way to sneak in some spinach for added nutrition.
