Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Introduction
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and healthy dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken meatballs with a zesty lemon orzo pasta, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. It is simple to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is healthy and filled with lean protein from the ground chicken. The fresh parsley and lemon juice give it a refreshing taste, making it a perfect dish for warm weather. Additionally, it is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can also easily customize the recipe to suit your own tastes!
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the orzo in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and return to the pot.
- Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice into the orzo, then serve topped with the baked meatballs.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Serve the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo on a plate. You can add extra lemon slices or a sprinkle of parsley on top for a nice touch. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
To store leftovers, place the meatballs and orzo in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor. Chopped thyme or dill can also work well in this recipe.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture, or they can become tough.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste for more or less acidity.
Variation
You can make this dish with ground turkey instead of chicken for a slightly different flavor. Additionally, you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the orzo for added color and nutrients.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo?
A: Yes, you can freeze both the meatballs and the orzo. Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers.
Q: What can I use instead of orzo?
A: You can use any small pasta shape, like couscous or mini shells, as a substitute for orzo.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo made from rice or corn to make this recipe gluten-free.
Enjoy making this tasty and easy dish that brings the taste of Greece right to your table!
