Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Introduction
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and healthy dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. This meal combines tender chicken meatballs with zesty lemon orzo pasta, making it a perfect choice for dinner or any special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of Greece without leaving your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and uses fresh ingredients that are good for you. Plus, the combination of juicy meatballs and bright lemony orzo makes for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is simple! Follow these steps to create a tasty dish.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken
- Fresh oregano
- Garlic
- Onion
- Lemon zest
- Orzo pasta
- Chicken broth
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh oregano, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs 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, about 5 minutes.
- In another pot, bring chicken broth to a boil; add orzo and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain excess liquid from the orzo and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the cooked meatballs and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Serve the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo warm. You can place the meatballs on top of the orzo or mix them together in a bowl. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch and enjoy with a side salad or some crusty bread.
How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
If you have leftovers, let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just make sure to separate the meatballs from the orzo when freezing.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the meatballs; they should be golden brown on the outside but juicy on the inside.
- Adjust the amount of lemon zest according to your taste preference; you can add more for a stronger lemon flavor.
Variation
You can try using ground turkey instead of ground chicken for a different flavor. You could also add spinach or kale to the orzo for added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried oregano, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for orzo?
Yes, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other grains in many stores.
3. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe!