Recipe Spotlight: Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach

Craving a delicious and nutritious meal? Look no further! These Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach are a must-try dish that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress your guests at a dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, spinach, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
• A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe.
• Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
• A: It’s best to use fresh basil for optimal flavor, but you can use dried basil if needed. Use half the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
• Q: Can I freeze these meatballs?
• A: Yes, you can freeze these meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Q: Can I omit the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?
• A: You can try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to the meatball mixture?
• A: Absolutely! Feel free to add in diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Helpful Tips:

• Add a splash of milk to the meatball mixture for extra moisture.
• Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce for a classic pairing.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a cheesy finish.
• For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the meatball mixture.
• Try using ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.

Expert Secrets:

• Season the meatball mixture generously with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
• Bake the meatballs on a wire rack for even cooking and to prevent sticking to the pan.
• For a crispier exterior, broil the meatballs for a few minutes after baking.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the meatballs to your liking.