Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo
Introduction
Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo is a delightful and fragrant dish that combines tender meatballs with fluffy orzo pasta. This meal is perfect for any night of the week, offering a burst of flavor that makes for a satisfying dinner. With the zing of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the heartiness of chicken, this dish truly shines.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make. It brings together simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The lemon and garlic add a fresh touch that brightens the entire dish. Plus, the orzo pasta cooks up beautifully alongside the meatballs, making it a complete meal in one pot. It’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo
Making Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo is straightforward and takes just a bit of time. Here’s how:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or half & half
- Additional lemon wedges and parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 18–20 small meatballs.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove them and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and toast the orzo for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and a bit more lemon juice. Stir to combine everything well.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Stir in additional Parmesan and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy warm!
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo
Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo warm in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. The dish will stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Feel free to add veggies like spinach or peas to the orzo for added nutrition and color.
- If you like it spicy, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the meatball mix.
Variation
You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, try using zucchini noodles instead of orzo.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before cooking. Once formed, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen by adding extra time to the simmering stage.
2. What can I use instead of orzo pasta?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta shape like farro, acini di pepe, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free pasta alternative. Check the labels to ensure all ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious and easy meal with Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs Orzo! Happy cooking!
