Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo Recipe
Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken meatballs with a rich and comforting orzo pasta. This recipe brings together fresh flavors of lemon and garlic, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a cozy meal, this recipe delivers comfort with every bite.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of lemon and garlic adds a refreshing twist that enhances the taste of the chicken meatballs and orzo. Lastly, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll not only enjoy the delicious flavors, but you’ll also appreciate how simple it is to make.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture.
Use your hands to form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 7-9 minutes, turning occasionally to brown on all sides. Once cooked through, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to thicken.
Add the meatballs back to the skillet, gently mixing them into the creamy orzo. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo
This dish is best served warm. Place the creamy orzo on a plate and top with the lemon garlic chicken meatballs. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and add lemon wedges for an extra citrus kick. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can be kept for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo
- For extra moist meatballs, don’t overmix the chicken mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if you prefer.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- If you want more lemon flavor, add more lemon zest and juice to the meatballs.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables to the orzo, such as spinach or peas. You can also replace the orzo with another kind of pasta like farro or rice for a different texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen ground chicken for the meatballs?
- Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before mixing the ingredients.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can mix and form the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them on the day you plan to serve the dish.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
- This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains breadcrumbs and orzo. To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo pasta.
Enjoy making your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo! It’s a satisfying meal that your family will love.
