One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

Looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these one-pan chicken meatballs with orzo! This dish is packed with flavor, simple to make, and sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of tender chicken meatballs and creamy orzo is a match made in culinary heaven.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this meal on the table in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredient Notes:

Chicken Meatballs:

• Ground chicken: Provides a lean and flavorful protein base for the meatballs.
• Dry breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together and adds texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich and savory flavor to the meatballs.
• Milk: Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of freshness to the meatballs.
• Italian seasoning, salt, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper: Seasonings that enhance the flavor of the meatballs.
• Oil: Used for cooking the meatballs.

Garlic Parmesan Orzo:

• Garlic: Adds a robust flavor to the creamy orzo.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the orzo.
• Dry orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks up perfectly in the creamy sauce.
• Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the orzo.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo for a cheesy finish.
• Salt, black pepper: Seasonings to enhance the flavor of the orzo.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, minced garlic, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs of equal size.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in orzo and cook until al dente.
7. Stir in cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the sauce has thickened.
8. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
• To save time, you can use pre-made chicken meatballs instead of making them from scratch.
• Leftover meatballs and orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the meatballs to ensure they brown evenly.
2. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Allow the orzo to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these one-pan chicken meatballs with orzo with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea for the perfect accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and orzo in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use ground beef instead of ground chicken for the meatballs?
   Yes, ground beef can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I freeze the meatballs and orzo for later?
   Yes, the meatballs and orzo can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta in place of orzo?
   You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, like ditalini or small shells, for a similar result.

Conclusion:

These one-pan chicken meatballs with orzo are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With flavorful chicken meatballs, creamy orzo, and easy one-pan preparation, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Print