Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
- Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each meatball.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: Heat the Sauce
- Warm Marinara Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Step 6: Serve
- Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are done, you can either serve them directly with the marinara sauce poured over them or add the meatballs to the sauce to simmer for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30