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Ranis

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo Delight!

A delicious recipe for Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs served with garlic orzo, perfect for a hearty 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
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. While the meatballs are baking, bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Drain the orzo and return it to the pot. Stir in a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the meatballs over the garlic orzo, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

  • For added flavor, sauté some chopped spinach or kale with garlic before mixing it into the orzo.
  • Substitute ground turkey or beef for the ground chicken for a different taste.

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