Name: Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Introduction

Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken meatballs seasoned with herbs and Parmesan cheese, served over a bed of zesty lemon-infused orzo. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Lemon Orzo:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper into the cooked orzo. Mix well to combine.
Serve the meatballs over the lemon orzo, garnished with fresh parsley.

Helpful Tips

Perfectly Shaped Meatballs: To ensure your meatballs are uniform in size and cook evenly, use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the mixture before rolling. Lightly oil your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the meatball ingredients until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can result in dense, tough meatballs.
Boost the Lemon Flavor: For a more vibrant lemon taste in the orzo, add a small pinch of lemon zest just before serving. This will keep the zest’s flavor fresh and zesty.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: Pair the dish with a crisp Greek salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese for a refreshing and complementary side.
As a Party Appetizer: Serve the meatballs on skewers with a small dollop of tzatziki for dipping, making them an ideal finger food for gatherings.
Family-Style Platter: Arrange the lemon orzo on a large serving plate, top with the meatballs, and garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices for a stunning centerpiece.

Substitutions and Variations

Protein Options: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef for a different flavor profile while maintaining a healthy balance.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free orzo alternative like rice or quinoa.
Vegetarian Twist: For a meatless version, use a plant-based ground meat alternative or form meatballs using a mixture of cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, and eggs.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigerate Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the meatballs and orzo are fully cooled before storing to prevent excess moisture buildup and maintain their texture.
Freezing Meatballs: Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat with Care: Reheat leftovers gently to avoid drying out. Use a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the dish moist, or microwave it covered with a damp paper towel for even heating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Meatballs: Cooking the meatballs too long can make them dry and tough. Aim for a golden brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep them juicy.
Skipping the Resting Step: Let the meatball mixture rest for a few minutes before forming balls. This allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, resulting in a firmer texture that holds together better.
Overcooking the Orzo: Orzo tends to overcook quickly, turning mushy. Check it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time and drain it as soon as it’s al dente for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, uncooked, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
What’s a good substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or grated Asiago cheese for a similar savory flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great alternative.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe work well. You can also try rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or mix a little harissa or hot sauce into the lemon orzo for an extra kick of heat.

Conclusion

Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a flavorful, wholesome dish that combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients for a satisfying meal. The tender, herbed meatballs pair perfectly with the zesty lemon-infused orzo, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner, a meal for entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, simple, and delicious.

With helpful tips for preparation, serving suggestions to elevate the presentation, and guidance for storage and reheating, this recipe ensures success every time. Avoid common mistakes like overcooking or skipping crucial steps to keep the dish fresh and flavorful. Plus, with substitutions and variations, you can adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences and tastes.

Enjoy this Mediterranean delight as part of your culinary repertoire and savor the bright, comforting flavors it brings to the table. Happy cooking! 🌟

Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Author: Avery
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale