Description
These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a deliciously creamy and savory twist on classic meatballs, featuring ground chicken, ricotta, and Parmesan. Baked until golden and served in marinara sauce, they are topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use your hands to mix thoroughly.
- Add the breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind the meatballs.
- Crack the egg into the bowl; this acts as a binder.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the meatball mixture into 1.5-inch balls (aim for about 12-15 meatballs).
- Place the shaped meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until cooked through and slightly browned.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Check the meatballs for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to the saucepan with the heated marinara sauce. Gently toss to coat.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the sauced meatballs in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Pour any remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in other herbs or spices to the meatball mixture.
- Serve with fresh basil leaves for garnish and alongside pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes