Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a delicious and fresh dish that combines juicy meatballs with flavorful pasta. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it is not only tasty but also healthy. The ground chicken thighs keep the meatballs moist, while the feta cheese adds a delightful tang. Garlic orzo brings a wonderful flavor that complements the meatballs perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you!
How to Make Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Ingredients
Chicken Feta Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garlic Orzo:
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Optional additions:
- Spinach
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken thighs, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is just combined. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until it smells fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes.
Stir in the chopped parsley into the orzo. Serve the meatballs on top of the garlic orzo and garnish with extra feta and lemon zest if desired.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
Serve the meatballs hot, sitting atop a bed of garlic orzo. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also top it with extra parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some added heat.
How to Store Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs and garlic orzo in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs separately from the orzo.
Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture. Just mix until combined to keep them tender.
- You can add spinach or cherry tomatoes to the orzo for a colorful and nutritious boost.
- Feel free to adjust the lemon juice based on your taste preference.
Variation
For a different flavor, try using ground turkey instead of chicken. You can also swap out feta cheese for ricotta or parmesan cheese to change the taste.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Is this dish gluten-free?
A2: The orzo pasta contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free orzo if you need a gluten-free version.
Q3: Can I use frozen chicken for the meatballs?
A3: It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before mixing the ingredients.
