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Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe

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Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe (45 Min Zesty Juicy Meatballs)

🕒 Prep: 20 min | 🍳 Cook: 25 min | ⏱️ Total: 45 min

👥 Serves: 4 (12-16 meatballs) | 🔥 Calories: 390 kcal/serving

Why You'll LOVE This Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs Recipe ✨

  • Zesty & Juicy: Ricotta + lemon = ultra-tender meatballs with a bright twist!
  • Quick Prep: 20 min mix, 30% faster than classic meatballs
  • Diet-Friendly: Gluten-Free Option, High-Protein, Make-Ahead

Ingredients 📋

🍗 Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground chicken (white + dark mix)
  • ¾ cup whole milk ricotta (sub: Greek yogurt)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (sub: GF breadcrumbs)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (2 lemons)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for baking)

🍋 Lemon Sauce (Optional)

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (sub: cornstarch)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (sub: coconut cream)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

💡 Pro Tip: Chill meatball mix 30 min = 40% richer flavor!

Instructions (5 Easy Steps) 📝

  1. 1. Mix Meatballs: Combine chicken + ricotta + panko + egg + lemon zest/juice + herbs + Parmesan + spices → Soft, zesty mix!
  2. 2. Shape: Form 12-16 meatballs (1.5" each), place on oiled baking sheet → Ready to bake!
  3. 3. Bake: 400°F (200°C) 20-25 min, flip halfway → Golden & juicy!
  4. 4. Make Sauce: Melt butter, whisk flour 1 min, add broth + lemon + cream, simmer 3 min → Velvety glaze!
  5. 5. Serve: Drizzle sauce over meatballs or serve on side → Lemon heaven!

⏰ Timing Hack: Prep sauce while meatballs bake – saves 5 minutes!

Pro Tips for PERFECT Results 🎓

  1. Chill Mix: 30 min fridge = firmer, tastier meatballs
  2. Don’t Overmix: Gentle mix = tender, not tough
  3. Storage: Fridge 3 days | Freeze raw/cooked 2 months
  4. Sauce Tip: Add cream slowly = smooth, no lumps

Variations 🌱

  • Gluten-Free: GF breadcrumbs + cornstarch for sauce
  • Dairy-Free: Coconut cream + skip Parmesan
  • Spicy: Double red pepper flakes + cayenne pinch
  • Air Fryer: 375°F 15 min, shake halfway

FAQ ❓

Can I use ground turkey?

Yes! Same ratio, same cook time = just as juicy

Make ahead?

Yes! Form meatballs, fridge 24 hr or freeze 2 months

No ricotta?

Yes! Greek yogurt = tangier, still creamy

Nutrition (Per Serving, 3-4 Meatballs) 🥗

Calories: 390 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 15g | Fat: 24g
High-Protein ✓ Gluten-Free Option ✓ Dinner Party ✓

Serve With 🍽️

  • Spaghetti – Sauce-soaking classic
  • Roasted Veggies – Zucchini or asparagus
  • Mashed Potatoes – Creamy comfort

Reader Reviews ⭐

"SO TENDER! Lemon flavor pops!" – Emma, CA
"Family favorite! Sauce is a game-changer" – Luca, NY

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