Easy Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, these Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are exactly what you need. Moist, tender, and packed with Italian-inspired seasonings, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, an appetizer for guests, or even meal prep for busy days ahead. The secret to their incredible juiciness? Creamy ricotta cheese, which keeps the meatballs soft and adds a delicious cheesy touch without overwhelming the mild flavor of the chicken.

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Ground chicken blends perfectly with ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, creating a tender texture and rich flavor. Garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley give them that classic Italian flair, while breadcrumbs and egg hold everything together just right. If you want to keep things gluten-free or low-carb, there are easy swaps you can make—more on that later!

Why These Meatballs Are So Good

First off, these meatballs are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing any deliciousness. The ricotta cheese is a game-changer; it’s what keeps the meatballs moist and creamy inside, preventing them from drying out—a common issue with baked poultry meatballs. Plus, the Parmesan adds a lovely salty, nutty flavor that balances the chicken’s mildness beautifully.

You’ll find this recipe super easy to pull together, with ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s flexible too—you can serve these meatballs over your favorite pasta, tuck them into a sandwich, or simply enjoy them as tasty little appetizers with marinara sauce for dipping.

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How to Make the Best Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil spray to keep the meatballs from sticking and to help them brown nicely.

Mix with Care
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground chicken, ricotta, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, fresh parsley, and breadcrumbs. The key here is to mix just until everything comes together—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon, but don’t overwork the mixture.

Shape Your Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls about 1½ inches in diameter. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place them on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each.

Bake to Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with olive oil for a beautiful golden crust. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are golden brown on top. If you like a little extra crisp, pop them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs shine served warm with a generous ladle of marinara sauce. Toss them with spaghetti or any pasta you like for a comforting meal. They’re also fantastic in a sandwich with melted cheese and fresh basil for a hearty lunch or dinner. For a party or appetizer platter, arrange them with toothpicks and serve alongside your favorite dipping sauces. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top adds a nice touch every time.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Meatballs

• Don’t overmix: Keep the texture tender by mixing ingredients gently. Overworking the meat can make the meatballs dense.
• Use whole milk ricotta: For the creamiest texture, opt for whole milk ricotta. It adds moisture and richness that part-skim versions can’t quite match.
• Add veggies for nutrition: Try finely grated zucchini or carrots mixed into the meatball mixture. They add moisture and sneak in some extra veggies without overpowering the flavor.
• Spice them up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.

Variations You’ll Love

• Spicy Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick that livens up the flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Cheesy Surprise: For an extra treat, stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella cheese before baking for a gooey, melty center.
• Low-Carb Twist: Replace breadcrumbs with finely ground almond flour for a low-carb version without losing texture.

Storage and Meal Prep

One of the best things about these meatballs is how well they store and reheat. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or zap them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

They freeze beautifully too! Whether cooked or raw, freeze them for up to three months in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat or bake as usual.

Answering Your Common Questions

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and results in similarly tender meatballs.
• How can I prevent sticking? Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet. Lightly greasing the sheet also helps.
• Can I cook these on the stove? Yes, you can brown them in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, turning to cook through. This gives a nice crust but takes a bit more hands-on time.
• How do I keep meatballs from falling apart? Make sure to use the egg and breadcrumbs as binders, and don’t skip the gentle mixing step.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs are a winning recipe for anyone who wants a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or entertaining friends, this dish fits all occasions. With their creamy texture, bold Italian seasonings, and golden-baked finish, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying they are!

Enjoy every bite!Check this out: https://recipe.ukfinda.com/baked-chicken-ricotta-meatballs/