Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Garlic Orzo. This delightful dish combines tender chicken meatballs with creamy orzo pasta infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh spinach. The golden-browned meatballs add a satisfying texture, while the zesty lemon sauce brightens every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Olive oil (for cooking)
For the Orzo and Sauce:
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: Melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in orzo and cook for 2 minutes to toast. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Prepare the Creamy Lemon Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything: Stir fresh spinach into the creamy orzo until wilted. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let everything heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy orzo onto plates and top with the meatballs. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner