Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken meatballs with a creamy sauce and tender orzo pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The tangy lemon flavor brightens the dish, while the creamy sauce and spinach add richness and nutrition.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. The meatballs are moist and flavorful due to the addition of ricotta cheese, which keeps them tender. Plus, it provides a good source of protein. The orzo pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying. If you love a combination of creamy textures and zesty flavors, this dish is a must-try!
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
Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, then roll into 1-inch meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic & Orzo: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté the garlic for 1 minute. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan. Add the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), and spinach. Simmer for 5 minutes until the orzo is tender.
Combine Everything: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and return the meatballs to the skillet. Let them warm through for 2–3 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy! Spoon onto plates, garnish with extra Parmesan and lemon zest, and serve hot.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Serve the meatballs over the orzo and drizzle some extra creamy sauce on top. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and a bit more grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely finishing touch. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the herbs and spinach.
- If you like a bit of heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes!
- Make sure the meatballs are cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey instead of chicken.
Variation
Feel free to switch up the greens! You can use kale or arugula instead of spinach. You can also swap out the orzo for another type of pasta, like penne or farfalle, if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes! You can freeze the meatballs before cooking them. Just shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if necessary.
3. How do I know when the orzo is done?
Orzo cooks quickly, typically in about 8-10 minutes. Taste it to check for doneness; it should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
Enjoy making this delicious dish that your family will love!
