5-Star Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Pastina – Easy & Flavorful

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting yet gourmet dish, Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Pastina is a must-try! These tender, flavor-packed meatballs combine the zesty brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of ricotta, making them irresistibly delicious. Paired with garlicky pastina, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra-Tender Meatballs – Ricotta keeps the chicken meatballs soft and juicy.
  • Bold & Balanced Flavors – A perfect blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs.
  • Quick & Easy to Prepare – Ready in under an hour, ideal for weeknight dinners.
  • Family-Friendly & Versatile – Serve it as a cozy meal or an elegant dish for guests.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Italian-inspired comfort food with a fresh twist. Plus, if you’re a fan of easy yet sophisticated meals, you’ll also love these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps—another flavorful option to add to your weekly menu!

What You’ll Need

Essential Kitchen Tools

Before you start making Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Pastina, gather these essential tools to make the cooking process seamless:

  • Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients efficiently.
  • Baking Sheet or Skillet – To cook the meatballs to golden perfection.
  • Food Processor (Optional) – Helps blend ricotta and seasonings for extra smoothness.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accurate seasoning.
  • Zester or Microplane – Essential for fresh lemon zest.
  • Large Pot – To cook the pastina evenly.
  • Tongs or Slotted Spoon – For handling meatballs without breaking them.

Ingredient Spotlight: Why Ricotta Works Wonders

Ricotta cheese isn’t just for lasagna—it plays a key role in meatball texture. It keeps the chicken moist, soft, and airy, preventing the dryness that often comes with lean meats. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth meatballs packed with flavor!

For another creamy and delicious appetizer, check out this Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip—a perfect dish to pair with these meatballs for a complete meal.

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Ingredients

For the Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken – Lean but still flavorful.
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese – Adds moisture and a creamy texture.
  • 1 egg – Helps bind the mixture together.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs – Provides structure and prevents crumbling.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory depth.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest – Adds a bright citrusy kick.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herby finish.
  • ½ tsp salt – Balances and enhances flavors.
  • ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a mild spice.
  • ½ tsp dried oregano – Complements the lemon and garlic.
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese – Gives a rich, umami flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – For searing the meatballs.

For the Garlic Pastina:

  • 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta, like acini de pepe or orzo) – The perfect delicate pasta for this dish.
  • 1 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the pasta.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the pasta with aromatic flavor.
  • 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances the depth of the pasta.
  • ¼ tsp salt – Balances the dish.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper – A subtle kick of spice.
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (for garnish) – Adds a finishing touch.
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens up the dish.

Ingredient Tip: The Power of Lemon & Garlic

Lemon and garlic create a classic flavor duo that enhances both the meatballs and pastina. The lemon adds a fresh acidity, while garlic provides a deep, aromatic taste—making this dish burst with flavor in every bite.

For another quick and flavorful dish, try this Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe—another meal where garlic works its magic!

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.
  3. Using a small scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.

Pro Tip: Preventing Dry Meatballs

Since chicken is lean, ricotta and breadcrumbs help retain moisture. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Transfer the meatballs to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Alternative Cooking Method: Baking

For a hands-off approach, bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes on a lined baking sheet until fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Pastina

  1. In the same skillet or a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the pastina and cook according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes) until the pasta is tender and the broth is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Plate the garlic pastina as a base, then arrange the lemon chicken ricotta meatballs on top.
  2. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed meal!

Serving Idea

Pair this dish with a light side, like a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing, to balance the richness of the meatballs.

Nutrition Score

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Pastina is a well-balanced dish, offering a mix of protein, healthy fats, and comforting carbs. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving (based on approximately 4 servings):

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving:

  • Calories: ~450-500 kcal
  • Protein: ~32g (from chicken, ricotta, and Parmesan)
  • Carbohydrates: ~45g (from pastina and breadcrumbs)
  • Fat: ~18g (from olive oil, ricotta, and Parmesan)
  • Fiber: ~2g (from garlic and lemon zest)
  • Sodium: ~650mg (can be adjusted by using low-sodium broth and cheese)

Why This Dish is a Great Choice:

✅ High in Protein – Helps with muscle recovery and keeps you full.
✅ Rich in Flavor with Minimal Added Fat – Ricotta keeps the meatballs moist without extra oil.
✅ Balanced Carbs & Fats – A good mix for sustained energy.
✅ Customizable – Swap pastina for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

💡 Want to make it even healthier? Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture or serve with a side of roasted broccoli for extra fiber and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do you make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

To make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, mix ground chicken with ricotta cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, Parmesan, and seasonings. Roll into small meatballs and cook them in a skillet or bake them until golden and cooked through. Serve them over garlicky pastina for a comforting and flavorful dish.

2. What does ricotta do for meatballs?

Ricotta adds moisture, creaminess, and tenderness to meatballs, preventing them from becoming dense or dry. It creates a light, airy texture, making each bite soft and flavorful.

3. How do you keep chicken meatballs from drying out?

Chicken is a lean meat, so to keep it from drying out:

  • Use ricotta cheese – It adds moisture.
  • Don’t overmix – Too much mixing makes meatballs tough.
  • Don’t overcook – Cook until just done (165°F/74°C internal temp).
  • Add a little fat – Olive oil or an extra egg can help.

4. What type of pasta pairs best with Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs?

Pastina (like acini de pepe, orzo, or stelline) works best because its small size complements the delicate texture of the meatballs. However, angel hair or pappardelle are also great options if you prefer a more classic pasta dish.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Pastina is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. The tender, flavorful meatballs infused with lemon and ricotta pair beautifully with the garlicky, buttery pastina, making this a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps with big flavor payoff.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – A cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for guests.
✔ Customizable – Adjust ingredients for dietary preferences or add extra veggies.

Next time you’re craving a comforting yet gourmet meal, give this recipe a try! Serve it with a crisp side salad, a glass of white wine, or some roasted vegetables for a complete dining experience.

Love Italian-inspired dishes? Be sure to check out Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet—another delicious meal that’s packed with flavor!

Enjoy cooking and savor every bite! 🍽✨

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