Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo: A Culinary Journey to the Heart of Greece
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece with this delicious and easy-to-make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe. Packed with Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of ground chicken, herbs, and lemon zest creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is a breeze to whip up in no time.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch of these chicken meatballs and lemon orzo for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken Meatballs:

Ground chicken: Provides a lean and protein-packed base for the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together and adds a nice texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich and savory flavor to the meatballs.
Finely chopped red onion and minced garlic: These aromatic ingredients enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Fresh parsley and dried oregano: Infuse the meatballs with fresh and herbaceous notes.
Salt, black pepper, and lemon zest: Season the meatballs and add a zesty kick.

For the Lemon Orzo:

Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that pairs perfectly with the chicken meatballs.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Adds flavor and moisture to the orzo.
Olive oil: Provides a rich and smooth texture to the orzo.
Feta cheese, fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper: These ingredients elevate the orzo with tangy, fresh, and savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
In the meantime, cook the orzo according to the package instructions, using broth instead of water for added flavor.
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in olive oil, feta cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Serve the chicken meatballs on a bed of lemon orzo and garnish with additional parsley and feta cheese.

Helpful Tips:

For a crispy exterior, you can also pan-fry the meatballs in a skillet before baking them.
Feel free to customize the meatballs with your favorite herbs and spices.
Store any leftover meatballs and orzo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Swap the chicken for ground turkey or beef if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with a side Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty baguette. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the meatballs and orzo in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of broth to keep the orzo moist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze the chicken meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of pasta for the lemon orzo? Yes, you can substitute orzo with any pasta shape of your choice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Experience the flavors of Greece with this tantalizing Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Cheers to delicious Mediterranean flavors!