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–+ servings
Isabella

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo delight!

A delightful recipe for Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs served with garlic orzo, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Form the chicken mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
  4. While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the garlic oil. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the orzo and gently toss to combine.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the meatball mixture.
  • If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.

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