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Easy Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce


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  • Author: Cheryl
  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Juicy, tender chicken and ricotta meatballs are baked and smothered in a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce. This comforting, protein-rich, low-carb dish is naturally gluten-free and perfect for weeknights or special occasions.


Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

Salt and pepper to taste

Pinch of nutmeg (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, almond flour, egg, garlic, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into meatballs. Place evenly on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20–22 minutes or until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  6. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low, pour in heavy cream, and let simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
  8. Once meatballs are done, spoon Alfredo sauce over them or toss to coat evenly in the skillet.
  9. Serve hot over pasta, zoodles, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

Swap ground chicken with turkey for variation.

Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

Add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 295
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg