One-Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs and Risotto: The perfect comfort meal

Whether you're looking to surprise a friend with a homemade meal or planning a cozy date night in, this recipe for One Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs in Risotto is the perfect choice. The bright flavours of freshly chopped basil and lemon zest make the chicken meatballs juicy and delicious, while the creamy risotto offers comfort with every bite. Plus, everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why this recipe is perfect to share

When someone you care about is going through a tough time or you just want to show them a little extra love, there's nothing quite like bringing over a home-cooked meal. This dish is not only delicious but also travels well, ensuring that your friend or loved one enjoys a warm, hearty meal without any hassle.

For date night, the vibrant flavours of the chicken meatballs paired with the rich, creamy risotto create a meal that feels both indulgent and special. Cooking together in the kitchen, or simply sharing this dish over candlelight, adds a personal touch that makes the evening unforgettable.

How to make One-Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs and Risotto

1. Start by making your meatballs. You can make these in advance and store them in the fridge, covered in plastic wrap.

2. Cook your meatballs in a skillet until 3 sides are nicely browned. They may start looking like little pyramids - that’s ok! They will round out late.

3. Finally, cook your risotto by adding it to the same skillet and stirring often until it becomes creamy. Then add back in the meatballs to finish cooking.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

   Tips and Transport:

   This dish will harden and clump together as it sits. To reheat it, just add a splash of chicken stock over medium heat. Stir it to soften the rice.

   Alternatively, cover the entire skillet with foil, and reheat it at 300F for 20 mins.

   These storage containers are perfect for bringing meals to loved ones.

   I also think this inexpensive cast iron skillet would be a great gift to just leave with the recipient.

   Want more veggies? Stir through a few handfuls of spinach when you add the peas for an added boost of green.

One Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs and Risotto

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs

• 2 lbs ground chicken

• 1 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 2/3 cups panko breadcrumbs (can sub gluten free)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

• zest and juice of 1 lemon, divided

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 4 cups chicken stock

• 2 cups arborio rice

• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them a little to scramble them. Then add in the ground chicken, parmesan, lemon zest (save the juice for later), panko breadcrumbs, basil and S&P. The texture will be a little wet and sticky. You’ll need to wet your hands to keep them from sticking to you. Roll the meat into golfball sized balls.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the olive oil shimmers, add the meatballs. Don’t over crowd them. Using tongs, ‘flip’ the meatballs every 2 minutes or so, until the meatballs are browned on 3 sides. They don’t need to be cooked all the way through. Remove the meatballs from the pan onto a plate, and set aside.

3. Add the garlic, chicken stock, lemon juice and arborio rice to the pan and stir to combine. Let the liquid come to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring often, for 15-20 minutes, until the liquid is almost absorbed. Taste the rice and if needed, add in a little more chicken stock or water. Add the chicken back into the skillet and continue cooking until the liquid is gone.

4. Add in the peas and parmesan in the last minutes of cooking.

5. Garnish with fresh basil, some lemon slices and more parmesan, if desired.

The perfect meal to take to someone when they are going through grief

This One Pan Basil Chicken Meatballs in Risotto recipe is more than just a meal—it's a gesture of care, a cozy date night in, and a delicious dish that brings comfort to any occasion. Whether you're sharing it with a friend or savoring it at home, it's sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let the flavours speak for themselves!

Join the Club!

If you loved this recipe, please let me know in the comments and come check out my instagram and TikTok pages. How about signing up for my newsletter. Join thousands of others who receive my weekly email, including exclusive newsletter recipes, meal plans, special subscribers discount codes and so much more! I share what I’m up to, what products I’m loving and what is inspiring me each week. I’m biased, but it really is the greatest place on the internet!