Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- The Secret to Juicy, Flavorful Meatballs
- How to Serve Your Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips
- Health Benefits of Chicken and Spinach
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
– These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are an easy and healthy recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners.
– The ricotta makes them extra moist, and the spinach adds a nutritious boost.
– They are freezer-friendly, making them great for meal prep.
– Serve them with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
These baked chicken ricotta meatballs are the ultimate combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Made with ground chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and nutrient-packed spinach, this dish is a go-to for those looking for an easy, healthy meal. Plus, they are baked instead of fried, making them even lighter without compromising on taste.
The Secret to Juicy, Flavorful Meatballs
One of the biggest challenges with chicken meatballs is keeping them moist. That’s where ricotta comes in! The creamy texture of ricotta cheese keeps these meatballs from drying out while adding a subtle richness. A combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese also enhances the flavor while ensuring the perfect balance of texture.
How to Serve Your Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
These baked chicken ricotta meatballs pair beautifully with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian dinner. But don’t stop there! Serve them over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option, or add them to a sub roll with melted mozzarella for a delicious sandwich. They also make a fantastic protein addition to a grain bowl.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips
If you’re into meal prep, these meatballs are a great addition to your routine. You can mix and shape them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to bake. Or, freeze them raw on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, simply bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Spinach
Chicken is a lean protein that’s essential for muscle growth and overall health, while spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals. Combining both in one dish ensures a nutrient-dense meal that is not only delicious but also supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re focusing on high-protein meals or just looking for a tasty way to get more greens, this dish has you covered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To get the best results, avoid these common mistakes when making your meatballs:
- Overmixing the meat can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
- Skipping the ricotta can result in dry meatballs—don’t leave it out!
- Not greasing your baking sheet can cause sticking, so be sure to coat it lightly with oil.
- Using too much breadcrumb can absorb moisture and make the meatballs dry.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly moist, flavorful meatballs every time!
For more delicious recipes, visit Clara Cooks!
Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach – Easy and Healthy
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta cheese, spinach, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan and pour over the baked meatballs.
- Serve warm with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
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