Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Introduction
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy chicken meatballs seasoned with traditional herbs, served over a bed of zesty orzo pasta. It’s a wholesome and comforting meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. First, it is a healthy and delicious option, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon adds vibrant flavors to your plate. Additionally, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it a great choice for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to the wonderful tastes of Mediterranean cuisine.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is simple. Just follow the directions below for a tasty meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain any excess broth and return the orzo to the saucepan. Drizzle with olive oil, add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Once the meatballs are finished, remove them from the oven and serve them alongside the lemon orzo. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Greek-inspired meal!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
This dish is best served warm. You can plate the lemon orzo and top it with the chicken meatballs. For a nice touch, add fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side. This creates a beautiful presentation that also enhances the flavor of the meal.
How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Be sure to mix the meatball ingredients well for an even taste.
- Don’t overcook the orzo; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- You can add more veggies to the orzo, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.
Variation
You could easily substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Additionally, feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste. You can also add different types of cheese to the orzo for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen chicken. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them.
3. Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other grains at your local grocery store.
Enjoy cooking and savor the tastes of Greece with this delicious recipe!
