Indulging in Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is like taking a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean, right from your kitchen. Imagine juicy, herb-infused meatballs dancing on your taste buds, mingling with vibrant lemony orzo that’s as bright as a sunny day. healthy taco spaghetti squash The aromas wafting through your home will have everyone asking if they should bring the beach towels. For more inspiration, check out this Taco Bell meat recipe recipe.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in nostalgia and comfort. Picture this: a family gathering with laughter echoing through the air, plates piled high with my favorite Greek chicken meatballs, and the kids stealing bites when they think no one is watching. It’s the perfect dish for summer evenings or cozy winter nights—an all-year-round crowd-pleaser that will make you feel like a culinary superstar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo recipe is quick to whip up and bursting with flavor
- The freshness of herbs and zesty lemon elevates every bite beautifully
- It presents beautifully, making it perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a delightful appetizer
I remember the first time I made these Greek chicken meatballs; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them, declaring them “the best thing since sliced bread.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for tender meatballs without excess fat that can weigh them down.
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Fresh Parsley: Use vibrant green parsley for that extra burst of color and freshness in every bite.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; choose plump cloves for maximum flavor impact.
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Red Onion: Sweet red onion brings sweetness and moisture; finely chop it to blend well into the meat mixture.
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Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemons to add bright citrus notes; it elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.
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Orzo Pasta: Cooked until al dente, this tiny pasta pairs perfectly with our savory meatballs. creamy rotel pasta.
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Chicken Broth: A splash of broth keeps the orzo moist while enhancing its flavor; low-sodium is preferred. flavorful char siu chicken.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess; sprinkle generously on top for serving.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken with chopped parsley, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well-mixed but not overworked.
Shape the Meatballs: Using wet hands (to avoid stickiness), form small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper while you get ready to cook.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, cooking until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes total—then transfer them to a plate.
Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and toss in cooked orzo pasta alongside chicken broth. Stir frequently until heated through and slightly absorbed by flavors.
Add Meatballs Back In : Gently nestle those glorious meatballs back into the skillet with orzo. Let everything simmer together for 3-5 minutes until heated thoroughly and flavors meld.
Serve & Garnish : Plate your Greek chicken meatballs over a bed of lemony orzo. Finish off by sprinkling feta cheese on top and garnishing with extra parsley for color.
With these delightful steps completed, your kitchen will smell remarkable! As you dig into your creation of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo, take a moment to savor not just each bite but also the joy of cooking something extraordinary from scratch. creamy Tuscan ravioli soup Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meatball ingredients while boiling water for the orzo. Sear the meatballs to lock in flavor, then cook the orzo in that same pot for ultimate convenience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap herbs like dill for parsley or add feta cheese for extra creaminess. Lemon zest can also elevate the dish with a zesty kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground chicken for tender meatballs and avoid drying out
- Always taste your mixture before cooking to adjust flavors as needed
- Let meatballs rest after cooking for juicier bites!
Cooking Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo always reminds me of my cousin’s wedding. The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and my uncle insisting he could whip up better meatballs than I could! For more inspiration, check out this shrimp and avocado bowls recipe.
FAQ
Can I freeze Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?
Yes, freeze meatballs separately from orzo for best results.
What can I substitute for ground chicken?
Ground turkey or pork works well if you’re looking for alternatives.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo, a dish that transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. These tender, herb-infused meatballs are perfectly paired with zesty lemon orzo, creating a delightful harmony of taste and aroma. Ideal for family gatherings or intimate dinners, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor that will impress your guests and warm your heart.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, parsley, garlic, red onion, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) using wet hands and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, cook orzo pasta in chicken broth until heated through and slightly absorbed.
- Return meatballs to the skillet with orzo and simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Serve over the lemony orzo and garnish with crumbled feta and extra parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
