Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together juicy meatballs and creamy pasta in a delightful combination. The freshness of lemon and the rich flavors of garlic make this recipe a perfect choice for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your cravings for comfort food while keeping it light and flavorful. The combination of ground chicken meatballs and creamy orzo creates a filling but not heavy meal. Plus, cooking it all in one skillet means less clean-up, making it practical for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make and sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for meatballs)
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for orzo)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (plus more as needed)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for orzo)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Extra parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until they are browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring often.
- Pour in the chicken broth and simmer until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes. Add more broth as needed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Let everything warm through.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Serve this dish warm in bowls. It can be garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to help restore its creaminess.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients; this keeps them tender.
- You can adjust the amount of garlic and lemon according to your taste preference.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just as well.
Variation
Feel free to swap the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different flavor. You can also add vegetables like spinach or peas to the orzo for added nutrition.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?
A1: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use less since they are more concentrated. About 1 tablespoon should suffice.
Q2: What if I don’t have orzo?
A2: If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like rice or couscous.
Q3: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook them when you’re ready to make the orzo.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
