Italian-Style Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe with Parmesan Alfredo
There’s nothing better than a plate of juicy, garlicky Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe bathed in a creamy spinach sauce. This recipe is packed with flavor, combining the richness of Parmesan, the freshness of herbs, and the comforting creaminess of a velvety sauce.
I first made this dish when I was looking for a way to elevate basic Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe. The result? A one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Let’s get cooking and make these Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipeyour new favorite meal!
Table of Contents
Recipe Overview
These Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe are seasoned with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, then pan-seared to golden perfection before being simmered in a rich, creamy spinach sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Spinach Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese or Ricotta
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into small, even-sized meatballs.
2. Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive and . Add the meatballs and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic, stirring until it becomes aromatic. Deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Gradually mix in the heavy cream and Parmesan, allowing the sauce to gently simmer and thicken to a silky consistency. Finally, toss in the spinach, stirring until it softens and blends into the rich, creamy sauce.
4. Combine and Serve
Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, coating them in the sauce. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Use fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor in both the meatballs and sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few extra minutes before adding the meatballs back in.
- Want a spicy kick? Add more red pepper flakes to taste.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs offer the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors. They’re easy to make, great for meal prep, and can be customized with different sides. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try!
Why Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe Are a Must-Have Dish
This dish is the perfect balance of comfort food and gourmet flavor. The juicy chicken meatballs are packed with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, creating a rich and savory taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy spinach sauce.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy and Quick: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is velvety, cheesy, and coats the meatballs beautifully.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs reheat well and taste even better the next day.
Variations and Customizations for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe
Want to make this dish even more personalized? Try these variations:
- Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and serve over cauliflower mash.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- Extra Greens: Toss in some kale or mushrooms along with the spinach for added texture and nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe
This dish is protein-packed and offers a satisfying mix of healthy fats and nutrients. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
These numbers will vary based on the exact ingredients used, but overall, it’s a balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied!
Serving Ideas for Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe
These flavorful meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of the best ways to serve them:
- Classic Comfort: Serve over buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta, letting the creamy Parmesan sauce coat every bite.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
- Crispy Bread Companion: Enjoy with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa for a wholesome, protein-packed meal.
For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan!
Fun Facts About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs
- The Secret Behind Juicy Meatballs: Using ricotta cheese in the mixture keeps them incredibly moist without needing a lot of breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan’s Role: Parmesan isn’t just for flavor—it also helps bind the meatballs while adding an umami depth.
- A Twist on Italian Tradition: While classic meatballs are often made with beef or pork, chicken gives a leaner, lighter take on the beloved dish.
- Why Garlic is a Star: Besides its rich flavor, garlic has natural antibacterial properties and has been used in cooking for centuries as a health booster.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: This dish is creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, but easy enough to make in your own kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, it never disappoints.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers—they taste even better the next day!
- Customizable for Different Diets: Whether you need gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free modifications, it’s easy to adapt.
The Perfect Excuse to Make These Again!
If you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly tempted to try these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatballs—and trust me, you won’t regret it! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and let the magic happen. Just be prepared—everyone will be asking for seconds!
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