Flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: savory chicken meatballs seasoned with fragrant herbs, sizzling in a pan, while zesty lemon orzo simmers away like a Mediterranean vacation on your stovetop. This dish is an explosion of flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing the Zorba before you even take a bite.

I remember the first time I made this delightful meal. My family gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation, as the smell drew them in. It was a weeknight, and we were all exhausted from work and school. But with just one taste of those tender meatballs and that bright, lemony orzo, laughter filled the air—turning our ordinary evening into a festive feast.

Sharing this dish has always sparked joy among my friends and family, especially when they express their surprise at how easy it is to prepare.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Chicken: Choose lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat.

• Fresh Parsley: Use vibrant green parsley to brighten flavors and add color.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic unleashes aromatic magic into your meatballs.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture with salty tanginess that’s irresistible.

• Lemon Zest: A must-have for that zingy brightness in both meatballs and orzo.

• Orzo Pasta: This small pasta shape cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with lemon.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop parsley, mince garlic, and zest the lemon. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze.

Make the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just incorporated.

Shape the Meatballs: Use your hands to form small meatballs—about one inch in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go; this keeps things organized.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, cooking until golden brown on all sides—about 10 minutes total.

Cook the Orzo: While meatballs are cooking, bring chicken broth to a boil in another pot. Stir in orzo and cook until al dente—around 8-10 minutes.

Add Flavor: Once orzo is ready, drain if needed and stir in lemon juice and additional zest. Toss gently to combine flavors before serving alongside meatballs.

Your Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with extra lemon wedges for that refreshing burst of flavor.

Now get ready to impress everyone at your dinner table without breaking a sweat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken meatballs in a hot skillet, then cook the lemon orzo while making the sauce. This ensures everything is ready at once, giving you perfect timing to impress your guests.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs like oregano with fresh dill or add feta cheese for a creamier texture. Personalize your dish with seasonal vegetables or spices that excite your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Greek chicken meatballs and lemon orzo in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water for moisture.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a sunny Sunday when friends gathered around my table, laughing over perfectly cooked meatballs and zesty orzo while I secretly took notes for future improvements.

FAQ

Can I freeze Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?

Yes, you can freeze them separately in airtight containers for up to three months.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple Greek salad pairs wonderfully with Greek chicken meatballs and lemon orzo.

How do I know when chicken meatballs are fully cooked?

Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F using a food thermometer for safety.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo are a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. These savory chicken meatballs, infused with fresh herbs and paired with zesty lemon orzo, create a vibrant dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this recipe guarantees satisfaction for both the cook and the diners.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Chop parsley, mince garlic, and zest the lemon.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a plate.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs in batches until golden brown on all sides (approximately 10 minutes).
5. Meanwhile, bring chicken broth to a boil in another pot. Add orzo and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes).
6. Drain if necessary, then stir in lemon juice and additional zest before serving with meatballs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 meatballs and 1/2 cup orzo (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg