If you’re looking for a balanced, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, look no further than these Baked Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs with Broccolini. This recipe blends the delicate flavors of tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and aromatic herbs, all baked together with nutritious broccolini for a well-rounded dish. The ricotta not only keeps the meatballs moist but adds a subtle richness that pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter yet earthy broccolini. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family meal, this dish is both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring that the flavors meld together.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each meatball.
4. Add the Broccolini: Arrange the trimmed broccolini around the meatballs on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be cooked through, and the broccolini should be tender and slightly charred on the edges.
6. Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle the meatballs and broccolini with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, adding more Parmesan for garnish if desired.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Total Time:
35-40 minutes
Kcal Per Serving:
Approximately 320 kcal
Tips
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix gently to avoid making the meatballs dense. Overmixing can cause the meatballs to become tough, so stop mixing once everything is just combined.
• Broccolini Substitution: If you can’t find broccolini, regular broccoli or even asparagus will work well in this dish. Just be mindful of cooking times; regular broccoli may take a bit longer.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeknights.
• Serve with Sides: To make this a heartier meal, serve the meatballs and broccolini over cooked quinoa, couscous, or even pasta.
Benefits
• High Protein: This dish provides a great source of lean protein thanks to the ground chicken. Combined with the ricotta, you’re getting a complete protein that will help with muscle repair and maintenance.
• Nutrient-Rich Broccolini: Broccolini is a superfood packed with fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. It’s also rich in antioxidants that promote overall health and well-being.
• Low in Carbs: For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, this recipe is a great choice. The use of ricotta and Parmesan adds healthy fats without the need for heavy starches.
• Balanced Meal: With protein from the chicken, calcium from the ricotta and Parmesan, and a serving of vegetables from the broccolini, this recipe provides a balanced mix of macronutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
2. How can I store leftovers?Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs?Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What can I serve with these meatballs?While the broccolini is a great side on its own, you can serve these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal. A fresh side salad would also complement this dish nicely.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?Ricotta gives these meatballs their unique texture, but you could experiment with other soft cheeses like cottage cheese or even mascarpone. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Conclusion
These Baked Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs with Broccolini offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal. The combination of juicy, tender meatballs with crisp, roasted broccolini provides a satisfying contrast that will please both adults and kids alike. Whether you’re making these for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, this dish is simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for that final, indulgent touch!
