Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta is a delightful main course known for its juicy texture, savory aroma, and creamy finish. Inspired by classic Italian comfort cooking and Sunday family dinners, this modern version combines tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, garlic, and a cloud like herbed ricotta to create a cozy yet impressive dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With easy, step by step instructions, anyone can make this recipe at home and impress family and friends with restaurant quality results. Trust me, you’re going to love this from the very first bite.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This Italian Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Ricotta stands out for its simplicity, bold flavor, and weeknight friendly elegance. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs and cool, creamy ricotta infused with fresh herbs makes it perfect for cozy family dinners, casual entertaining, or even meal prep lunches that feel anything but boring. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe guarantees impressive results every time. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and this one’s a total game changer when you want comfort food that still feels light and refined.

All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need

• Ground chicken, 500 g (about 1.1 lb)
• Whole milk ricotta cheese, 250 g (1 cup)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, 60 g (1.2 cup)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, 15 g (2 tablespoons)
• Fresh basil, finely chopped, 10 g (1 tablespoon)
• Garlic cloves, minced, 2 cloves (about 6 g)
• Breadcrumbs, 60 g (1.2 cup)
• Egg, 1 large (about 50 g without shell)
• Olive oil, 30 ml (2 tablespoons)
• Salt, 5 g (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper, 2 g (0.5 teaspoon)

(Adjust quantities and details as needed.)

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 16 medium meatballs)

Special Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Baking dish or skillet
• Knife or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect ITALIAN CHICKEN MEATBALLS with HERBED RICOTTA

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Using a fork or clean hands, gently combine everything until just mixed. The mixture should feel soft and slightly sticky but not wet. Avoid overmixing, as that can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Lightly oil your hands with a small amount of olive oil. Scoop about 30 g (2 tablespoons) of the mixture and roll it gently into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, placing the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go. You should end up with evenly sized meatballs that cook at the same rate.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering and fragrant, add the meatballs in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning gently, until they are golden brown all over and cooked through. The kitchen will smell incredible at this point, savory, garlicky, and deeply comforting.

Step 4: Make the Herbed Ricotta
While the meatballs cook, prepare the herbed ricotta. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. The ricotta should be light, fresh, and speckled with vibrant green herbs.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish
Transfer the cooked meatballs to a serving platter. Spoon generous dollops of herbed ricotta over and around the meatballs, or serve it on the side for dipping. Finish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

• Serve warm for the best flavor and juiciest texture.
• Present on a wide white platter to let the golden meatballs and creamy ricotta shine.
• Garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil and a light drizzle of olive oil.
• For an elegant touch, serve with crusty bread or alongside a simple green salad.

Extra Tips for Best Results

• Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest, most luxurious texture.
• Let the meatball mixture rest for 5 minutes before shaping to help it hold together better.
• Serve immediately for the best contrast between warm meatballs and cool ricotta.

Variations You Can Try

• Swap parsley and basil for fresh thyme and oregano for a deeper herbal profile.
• Make mini meatballs for appetizers and serve with ricotta as a dipping sauce.
• Add finely grated lemon zest to the ricotta for a bright, fresh twist.

FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About ITALIAN CHICKEN MEATBALLS with HERBED RICOTTA

Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and cook the meatballs up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Q2: Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan frying?

Absolutely. Bake them at 200°C (400°F) for about 18 to 22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.

Q3: How do I know when the chicken meatballs are done?

They should be firm to the touch, lightly golden, and reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Q4: Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, cooked meatballs freeze very well. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer safe container.

Q5: What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Q6: Can I use low fat ricotta?

You can, but whole milk ricotta gives a much creamier and richer result that really elevates the dish.

Q7: Why are my meatballs dry?

Dry meatballs usually mean overmixing or overcooking. Mix gently and cook just until done.

Q8: Can I add vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, finely grated zucchini or carrot can be added, just squeeze out excess moisture first.

Q9: How long does herbed ricotta last?

Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Q10: Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely. These meatballs reheat well and stay juicy, making them perfect for make ahead meals.

Conclusion

ITALIAN CHICKEN MEATBALLS with HERBED RICOTTA is a show stopping main course that’s surprisingly simple to make yet visually stunning. With its juicy, tender meatballs and silky, herb kissed ricotta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again, because trust me, you’re going to love this dish every single time.

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