Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Recipe

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs dance with creamy garlic orzo, creating Mediterranean magic on your plate. Zesty citrus notes and herb-infused protein promise a delightful culinary escape that transports you straight to coastal Italian kitchens.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup (120 grams) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg

Binding and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Aromatics:

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by adjusting the temperature to 375°F (190°C) to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
  2. Create a harmonious blend of ground chicken, ricotta, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly integrating all components until a uniform consistency emerges.
  3. Craft compact, spherical meatballs approximately 1-inch in diameter, positioning them strategically on a parchment-lined baking surface.
  4. Activate a large skillet with olive oil over medium thermal intensity, carefully rotating the meatballs to achieve a golden-brown exterior across all surfaces, approximately 5 minutes.
  5. Transition the meatballs into the preheated oven, allowing them to roast for 15-20 minutes until completely cooked through, verifying internal temperature and texture.
  6. Simultaneously prepare the orzo according to manufacturer’s guidelines, draining excess liquid and reserving the pasta for subsequent stages.
  7. Utilize the identical skillet from meatball preparation, introducing additional olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and translucent.
  8. Incorporate chicken broth, creating a gentle simmer, then fold in the cooked orzo, fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, ensuring thorough distribution of flavors.
  9. Present the succulent meatballs atop the fragrant garlic orzo, optionally embellishing with additional parsley or Parmesan to elevate the visual and gustatory experience.

Notes

  • Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking, using a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon helps create consistent portions.
  • Swap ground chicken with turkey or lean beef for variation, maintaining similar moisture levels with ricotta cheese.
  • Pat chicken dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture, which can make meatballs soggy and difficult to form.
  • For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko crumbs, keeping the same binding properties.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg