Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo is a delightful dish that brings fresh flavors right to your plate. This recipe combines the light taste of chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to whip up Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo. First, it’s a healthy meal that combines lean protein with nutritious herbs. Second, the bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist, making it a perfect dish for warm weather. Lastly, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to prepare a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
How to Make Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
Making Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo is simple and quick. You will start by preparing the meatball mixture and then cooking everything together in a skillet. Follow these steps to create a delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground chicken
- 1 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 Lemon
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 3/8 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup Red onion, finely chopped
- 1 Egg
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Orzo pasta
- 2 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Pepper
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, parsley, red onion, egg, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are cooking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a separate pot. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the orzo and set aside.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, pour in a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the cooked orzo for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the meatballs on top of the orzo, garnished with fresh parsley and extra feta cheese if desired.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo can be served right from the skillet or plated for a more formal presentation. Top the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and color. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature. Place the chicken meatballs and orzo in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be kept for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Orzo
- Be gentle when forming the meatballs to keep them tender.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to suit your taste.
- For a little kick, add red pepper flakes to the mix.
- You can substitute ground turkey or beef for ground chicken if desired.
Variation
For a different twist, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo for a healthier option.
FAQs
Can I freeze Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time.What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup.How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for some heat.
Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful and simple recipe!
