Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs: A Delicious Appetizer for Every Occasion
Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs are a delightful, high-protein appetizer that brings together tender chicken thighs, nutrient-packed spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. These flavorful bombs are coated in crispy whole wheat breadcrumbs, offering a perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re preparing a party appetizer or a light meal, these Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs are sure to impress your guests with their delicate yet bold flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (washed and cleaned) | 200 grams |
| Spinach (washed) | 200 grams |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Ricotta Cheese | 150 grams |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 2 cups |
| Mixed Dried Herbs (basil, oregano) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Black pepper powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil (for frying) | As needed |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Begin by washing and cleaning the chicken thighs thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, make a deep slit along one side of each chicken thigh to create a pocket. This pocket will hold the spinach and ricotta filling.
- Once the pockets are ready, marinate the chicken in a bowl with salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Set aside.
-
-
Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- In a saucepan, bring water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, add the washed spinach leaves and let them sit for 3-4 minutes to soften.
- Remove the spinach from the saucepan and strain out all excess water. Allow the spinach to cool slightly before transferring it to a mixing bowl.
- Add the ricotta cheese to the spinach. Season the mixture with salt, mixed Italian herbs, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine until smooth and creamy.
-
Stuff the Chicken:
- Using a spoon, carefully stuff the spinach and ricotta mixture into the chicken pockets. Ensure that the filling is evenly distributed. Once all the chicken thighs are stuffed, place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the chicken helps set the spinach and ricotta filling inside.
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Coat the Chicken:
- On a separate plate, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs with garlic powder, black pepper powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together.
- Take the chilled chicken thighs out of the refrigerator and coat each piece generously with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that the chicken is fully covered.
-
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat sunflower oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken thighs into the pan, one by one.
- Fry the chicken on each side for about 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The total frying time should be approximately 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip the chicken carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Your Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs are now ready to serve! These crispy, golden-brown chicken bombs have a flavorful filling of spinach and ricotta that will melt in your mouth with every bite.
- Serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a light meal. Pair with a refreshing dip like Cottage Cheese Dip with Pepper and Olives for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs:
- Chill the Chicken: After stuffing the chicken, refrigerating it helps the filling stay inside the chicken and prevents it from leaking out during frying.
- Breadcrumb Coating: For an extra crunchy exterior, consider using panko breadcrumbs or double-coating the chicken for a thicker, crispier crust.
- Spinach Preparation: Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained after boiling to avoid excess water in the filling. You can also squeeze the spinach gently with your hands to remove any remaining moisture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
These Chicken Spinach and Ricotta Bombs are a fantastic way to enjoy a high-protein, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy gatherings.
