Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

Meatballs have a way of capturing our culinary imagination unlike almost any other dish. They are universally beloved, endlessly versatile, and steeped in tradition across countless cultures. But among the many variations, chicken ricotta meatballs hold a unique place—a beautiful marriage of lightness and creaminess, rustic simplicity, and refined flavor.

Unlike their beef or pork counterparts, chicken meatballs offer a lighter canvas. They are naturally leaner, which can sometimes make crafting tender, juicy meatballs a bit of a challenge. Enter ricotta cheese—an ingredient that transforms the texture, adding moisture and silkiness without heaviness. The result is meatballs that feel indulgent yet wholesome, tender yet structured, and bursting with subtle flavor nuances.

This recipe is a celebration of balance: the delicate, mild flavor of ground chicken paired with the creamy richness of ricotta, brightened by fresh herbs like basil and parsley, gently seasoned with garlic and lemon zest, and anchored by just the right amount of Parmesan for umami depth. Each bite offers a contrast of textures—a soft, almost custardy interior wrapped in a golden crust.

But these meatballs are far from fussy. They are approachable, flexible, and perfect for a variety of meals. Whether simmered gently in a robust tomato sauce, baked for a crispier finish, or served alongside a simple salad or creamy polenta, chicken ricotta meatballs deliver a satisfying experience that feels both comforting and special.

They also offer a wonderful blank slate for culinary creativity. You can tailor the herbs and spices to suit your mood or season, incorporate different cheeses for complexity, or experiment with cooking methods to suit your schedule and preferences. Because these meatballs are forgiving and adaptable, they shine in everything from weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings.

In the pages ahead, we will explore every facet of crafting the perfect chicken ricotta meatballs—from selecting quality ingredients and mastering the ideal mixture to shaping and cooking techniques that preserve tenderness and maximize flavor. You’ll find tips on pairing, storage, and reheating, as well as ideas for sauces and sides that elevate the dish even further.

This recipe is an invitation to savor the pleasure of homemade meatballs that are light, luscious, and utterly satisfying—a dish that comforts the soul while delighting the palate.

Let’s embark on this delicious journey together.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Chicken Ricotta Meatballs

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start, assemble all ingredients on your workspace. This “mise en place” approach streamlines the cooking process and helps avoid missed steps.

Ingredients for the Meatballs:

• 1½ pounds ground chicken: Preferably a mix of white and dark meat for moisture and flavor.

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Fresh ricotta adds creaminess and tenderness.

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and umami.

• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.

• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brightens the flavor.

• ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped: Adds subtle herbal notes.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic pungency.

• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds brightness and lifts the flavor profile.

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all flavors.

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat.

• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps absorb moisture and keep the meatballs tender but structured.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken and ricotta cheese first. This ensures the wet ingredients distribute evenly throughout the meat.

Next, add the grated Parmesan, egg, chopped herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Finally, add the breadcrumbs.

Using your hands or a large spoon, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing—excessive handling can toughen the meatballs. The mixture should feel moist and sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Lightly grease your hands with olive oil or water to prevent sticking. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per meatball.

Roll gently between your palms to form even, compact balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter.

Place the formed meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Aim to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.

If you have time, refrigerate the meatballs for 20–30 minutes. This resting step firms up the mixture, helping the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method

Chicken ricotta meatballs are versatile and can be cooked in several ways depending on your preference for texture and time constraints.

Option A: Pan-Frying

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add meatballs in batches without crowding the pan.

3. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes.

4. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option B: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced evenly.

3. Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with olive oil for a golden crust.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and lightly browned.

Option C: Simmering in Sauce

1. Brown the meatballs gently in a skillet for 3–4 minutes to develop color.

2. Transfer to a simmering tomato sauce of your choice.

3. Cover and cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the meatballs to finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 5: Prepare a Simple Tomato Sauce (Optional)

If you want to serve the meatballs with sauce, a quick, fresh tomato sauce complements their delicate flavor beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Add crushed tomatoes and oregano. Bring to a simmer.

5. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

6. Let simmer gently while you cook the meatballs, about 15 minutes.

7. Stir in fresh basil just before serving.

Step 6: Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken ricotta meatballs on their own with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, or ladled with tomato sauce over pasta, polenta, or even a crisp green salad.

They also make excellent meatball subs with melted mozzarella on a toasted hoagie roll, or served as appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauces like marinara or tzatziki.