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lemon chicken ricotta meatballs

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Sophie
Discover how to make tender lemon chicken ricotta meatballs in just 30 minutes! This easy recipe creates juicy, flavorful meatballs perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

The Protein Base

  • 1 pound ground chicken 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best
  • ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese don't skip the whole milk version!

The Binding Squad

  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs creates better texture than regular
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

The Flavor Heroes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest about 2 large lemons
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced fine
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Essential Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace (2 minutes)

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Have a small bowl of water nearby for keeping your hands clean while shaping.

Step 2: Create the Perfect Mix (5 minutes)

  • In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken and ricotta cheese using a fork – don't use your hands yet! Add the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, and basil. Sprinkle in your salt, pepper, and onion powder.
  • Key Technique: Mix everything with a fork first, then use your hands for just 30 seconds. Overmixing creates tough meatballs.

Step 3: Shape Like a Pro (8 minutes)

  • Wet your hands slightly and roll the mixture into golf ball-sized portions (about 1½ inches). Don't pack them tight – think gentle snowball, not tennis ball. Place each meatball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them.

Step 4: The Golden Finish (20 minutes)

  • Drizzle the meatballs lightly with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F).

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Calcium: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 8% DV
Keyword Easy Chicken Meatballs, Family-Friendly Meal, Quick Dinner Recipe