Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings comfort to any table. The rich flavors of chicken and ricotta meatballs blend perfectly with creamy orzo pasta and fresh spinach, making it a delightful meal for family or friends. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it combines healthy ingredients like spinach and chicken while still being indulgent with creamy cheese and flavorful spices. Second, it’s a one-skillet meal, which means less clean-up after cooking. Lastly, the bright lemon flavor makes it refreshing and delicious. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting, these meatballs are easy to make and loved by everyone.
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 together until just combined, then form 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 occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the 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 bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, add red pepper flakes if using, and the 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 meatballs to the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 more 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 hot. You can place the creamy orzo on a plate and top it with the meatballs. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a little lemon zest for added flavor. A side salad or some crusty bread can also complement this meal perfectly.
How to Store Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo
- Make sure to mix the meatball ingredients gently to keep them tender.
- You can adjust the lemon juice according to your taste preferences for more or less tanginess.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
Variation
If you’re looking for a variation, you can easily swap out chicken for turkey or add in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. You can also use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before cooking them. Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. When ready, cook from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Check your ricotta and other dairy ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Enjoy making and sharing your Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach & Garlic Orzo!
