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Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Recipe

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Recipe
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5.1 from 21 reviews

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a delightful dish featuring juicy lemon chicken meatballs served over creamy garlic orzo pasta.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Garlic Orzo

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preparation – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon zest, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Combine well. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches wide.
  2. Cooking – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer them to a baking sheet. Bake the meatballs in the oven for 10–12 minutes until cooked through. While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the orzo and toast for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes. Mix in Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
  3. Serving – Serve the meatballs over the garlic orzo, garnished with extra parsley and lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Make sure to mix the meatball ingredients gently so they stay tender.
  • Adjust the lemon zest for your taste.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/lemon-chicken-ricotta-meatballs-with-garlic-orzo-recipe/