Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for baking or pan-frying
- For the Garlic Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: Extra Parmesan and chopped herbs for garnish.
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a skillet for pan-frying.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Step 3: Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Step 4: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through, or pan-fry until browned and cooked thoroughly.
- Step 5: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 6: Add the orzo and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. Then, stir in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, and reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Step 7: Stir in butter and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8: Serve the meatballs over the garlic orzo and garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs? Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will yield similar results.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes! Form and bake the meatballs, then allow them to cool completely before freezing them in a single layer. Transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- What other sides can I serve with this dish? Fresh salad or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with the meatballs.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and orzo ahead of time and reheat them before serving.
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a delightful and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors, nutritious ingredients, and satisfying textures, this meal is bound to become a family favorite. Prepare, serve, and enjoy this amazing recipe today!
