Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight
Introduction
Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken meatballs infused with delightful herbs and lemon, paired with a tangy orzo pasta that makes every bite exciting. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious. The combination of juicy chicken, bright lemon, and fresh herbs offers a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s a one-stop meal that combines protein and carbs, making it satisfying and balanced.
How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, drained red onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently mix by hand until just combined.
- Portion the mixture into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs evenly spaced on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring the broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Return the drained orzo to the pot. Stir in olive oil, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
- Carefully fold the baked meatballs into the orzo mixture.
- Plate the meatballs over a bed of lemon orzo, or serve family-style in a large bowl.
How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight
Serve the meatballs warm over a bed of zesty lemon orzo. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor. This dish is great for sharing, so feel free to serve it in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves.
How to Store Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the meatballs and orzo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs separately for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Tips to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Adjust the lemon juice and zest for more or less tang, depending on your taste.
Variation
For a low-carb variation, substitute the orzo with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also swap the ground chicken for turkey or beef if preferred.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen ground chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing the meatball ingredients.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is complete on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread if you like.
3. How do I know the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Enjoy this tasty and simple recipe for Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo Delight! You’ll love the flavors and ease of making it at home.
