Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Introduction
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delicious and nutritious dish. This meal combines tender chicken meatballs with the bright flavors of lemon orzo. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special gatherings. The fresh herbs and feta cheese add a lovely Mediterranean touch that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and very satisfying. The combination of flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a great way to introduce healthy ingredients like ground chicken and fresh herbs into your meals. Plus, it requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 egg (beaten)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, feta cheese, parsley, dill, oregano, beaten egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.Prepare the Lemon Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the orzo and return it to the saucepan. Add the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.Serve:
Serve the Greek chicken meatballs over the lemon orzo. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
You can serve Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo on a big plate, making sure to add plenty of meatballs on top of the orzo. It’s nice to garnish with fresh parsley for color. A squeeze of extra lemon juice on top can also enhance the flavors!
How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture; this can make them tough.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for the best flavor.
- If you want to make it easier, prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them.
Variation
You can easily swap the ground chicken for ground turkey if you prefer. Also, feel free to change up the herbs based on what you have on hand!
FAQs
1. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes! You can place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
2. What can I serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are great with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh Greek salad. You can also add some crusty bread.
3. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! You can use any type of small pasta, such as couscous or ditalini, if you prefer.
