These Herby Chicken & Ricotta Meatballs are a tasty mix of ground chicken and creamy ricotta, packed with fresh herbs. They’re juicy, light, and full of flavor!
Making these meatballs is super easy! I love serving them with pasta or on a bun. Trust me, you’ll want to keep a batch handy for quick meals—yummy and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground chicken: This is the base of your meatballs. If you prefer, turkey works just as well for a leaner option. You could also use beef or pork, but the flavor will be quite different.
Ricotta cheese: Try using cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, though it may alter the texture slightly. Cream cheese can also substitute, giving a rich creaminess.
Fresh herbs: You can mix any fresh herbs you like. If fresh parsley or mint isn’t available, dried versions will work, just use about a third of the amount as they are more concentrated.
Parmesan cheese: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives if you want something similar but with a unique flavor twist.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have fresh breadcrumbs, store-bought ones are fine. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs are Moist and Flavorful?
To get the perfect moisture and flavor in your meatballs, follow these tips:
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overworking can lead to tough meatballs.
- Use ricotta cheese for moisture. It’s a key ingredient that keeps your meatballs tender.
- Make sure your pan isn’t overcrowded. Give each meatball space to brown evenly.
- Cook on medium heat to brown without burning. If your pan is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly.
- Let them rest before serving! This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
With these tips, you’re set to make deliciously tender and herby meatballs every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Herby Chicken & Ricotta Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Serving:
- Cooked asparagus
- Chickpeas
- Light cream sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have these tasty meatballs ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, basil, mint, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs. Make sure to mix everything together well but gently—this helps keep your meatballs tender.
2. Season and Shape:
Generously season the mixture with salt and black pepper and give it another gentle mix. Now, shape the mixture into small meatballs, aiming for about 1.5-2 inches in diameter. You should get around 12-16 meatballs, depending on size.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan—cook them in batches if needed. Let them cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and fully cooked through.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. For an extra treat, you can serve them on a bed of cooked asparagus and chickpeas, with a drizzle of light cream sauce or olive oil.
Enjoy your delicious Herby Chicken & Ricotta Meatballs—perfect for a wholesome meal or appetizer!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still keep the meatballs tender and flavorful. Just make sure to check the fat content; lean turkey may need a bit more seasoning.
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs ahead of time! Shape them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them raw for up to 3 months—just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What Should I Serve With the Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, rice, or served on a bun for a delicious meatball sub. You can also serve them on a bed of veggies like cooked asparagus and chickpeas as suggested, or toss them in a salad for a lighter meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently on the stovetop until heated through. You can also add a splash of cream or sauce to keep them moist during reheating!
