Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Juicy chicken meatballs mixed with tangy feta cheese and complemented by a bright lemony orzo make for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with something special yet simple.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Using ground chicken keeps it lean, while the orzo adds a comforting touch to the meal. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon, and feta cheese elevates the taste, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings and garnishes!
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water, for cooking the orzo)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings and Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or dill
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon wedges
Directions
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined. Shape into 16–20 meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs, leaving space between them; cook for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Remove to a plate.
Make the Lemon Orzo: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish: Stir in the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Return the meatballs to the pan with the orzo, nestle them in, cover, and warm through for 2–3 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with fresh dill, additional feta, and parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Serve the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo on a large plate or shallow bowl. You can sprinkle extra feta cheese and chopped herbs on top for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. The orzo may absorb some liquid, so you can add a splash of broth or water if needed.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the meatballs. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Be careful not to overcook the meatballs; they should be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- You can add some chopped spinach or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Variation
You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled chickpeas or lentils combined with breadcrumbs and spices to make meat-free meatballs.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve some tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Can I make the orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the orzo and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a bit of broth before serving. However, it’s best to combine it with the meatballs just before serving to keep it fresh.
