Description
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Savor the vibrant flavors of Greece with this comforting dish that combines zesty lemon, tender chicken meatballs, and rich orzo pasta. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these meatballs pack a punch of fresh herbs and feta cheese, paired perfectly with a light, citrusy orzo. A true celebration of Greek culinary tradition that’s both healthy and delicious!
1 lb ground chicken
¼ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill
1 tsp dried oregano
1 egg, beaten
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
1. Mix all meatball ingredients. Form into balls. Fry until golden.
2. For orzo: Cook in broth, add lemon zest, juice, and Parmesan.
Prep Time: 45 mins
Kcal: 448
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, feta, parsley, dill, oregano, beaten egg, and lemon zest. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Using damp hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs (you should get about 18-20).
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Transfer to a plate.
4. For the orzo, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Add 1 cup of orzo, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 9-10 minutes until al dente and liquid is absorbed. Stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon, along with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the lemon orzo first, creating a bed for the Greek chicken meatballs. Garnish the entire dish with extra crumbled feta, chopped fresh dill or parsley, and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve with a simple side salad of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and Kalamata olives dressed with red wine vinegar and oregano. A wedge of warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and orzo.
How-to Summary
Combine chicken, herbs, feta, and aromatics to form meatballs. Pan-fry until golden and cooked through. Separately, simmer orzo in broth until tender, then finish with lemon and Parmesan. Serve the meatballs over the lemony orzo for a vibrant, one-pan inspired Greek feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying? Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and bake for 18-20 minutes until cooked through.
What can I use instead of ground chicken? Ground turkey or a mixture of ground pork and veal are excellent substitutes that maintain a light texture and absorb the Greek flavors well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store meatballs and orzo separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely. You can form the meatballs and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can help deepen the flavors.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the orzo? You can use a gluten-free orzo pasta or substitute with an equal amount of rice or quinoa, adjusting the cooking liquid and time according to package directions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the meatball ingredients, which results in dense, tough meatballs. Using dry, pre-crumbled feta instead of a block you crumble yourself, as it lacks creaminess and flavor. Forgetting to zest the lemon before juicing it—it’s much harder to do in reverse. Crowding the skillet when frying the meatballs, which steams them instead of creating a golden-brown crust. Overcooking the orzo, turning it mushy; aim for al dente.
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe is a standout weeknight dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward steps. The combination of herby, cheesy meatballs and bright, comforting pasta is universally appealing. By following the detailed guide and tips, you can easily master this dish and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation.