Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over Garlicky Orzo is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines juicy chicken meatballs with a zesty lemon flavor. The fluffy orzo pasta, tossed with fragrant garlic, creates a wonderful bed for the meatballs, making this a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of flavors is delicious and satisfying, offering a nice twist on traditional meatballs. Additionally, it’s a healthy option, as it uses ground chicken and adds the creaminess of ricotta cheese without being too heavy. Lastly, it looks beautiful on the plate, making it a lovely choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over Garlicky Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked orzo to the pot and stir to combine.
- Serve meatballs over garlicky orzo and garnish with chopped parsley.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over Garlicky Orzo
To serve this dish, place a generous portion of the garlicky orzo on a plate, then top it with a few meatballs. Make sure to drizzle some of the delicious broth over the top for added flavor. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Store Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over Garlicky Orzo
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the meatballs and orzo in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs over Garlicky Orzo
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Make sure the meatballs are well mixed to keep them tender.
- If you want more flavor in the orzo, you can cook it in chicken broth instead of water.
- Add some veggies like spinach or peas to the orzo for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using ground turkey instead of ground chicken. For a dairy-free version, you can skip the ricotta and Parmesan or use vegan substitutes.
FAQs
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing raw, shape them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for later use.Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo works great, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.How do I make the meatballs juicier?
Adding a little bit more ricotta or using a mixture of ground chicken and ground beef can add more moisture to the meatballs.
