Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and the egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the mixture. Mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Bake: Transfer the seared meatballs back to the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own, with pasta, or in a sandwich.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with marinara sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
- Place in a sub roll with marinara and mozzarella cheese for a meatball sub.
- Serve over a salad for a lighter option.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Ricotta Meatballs!
