Delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe

Imagine savoring succulent Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo that dance on your palate like a Mediterranean holiday! The zestiness of lemon mingles effortlessly with tender meatballs, creating an explosion of flavors that will have you dreaming of sun-kissed shores.

Every bite takes me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday dinner or an unexpected gathering of friends, this dish promises joy and deliciousness all around.

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One time at a family BBQ, my cousin declared these meatballs “life-changing,” promptly asking for seconds and thirds!

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Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Chicken: Aim for lean ground chicken to keep these meatballs moist without excess fat.
• Onion: Finely chop a sweet onion to enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for that bold punch that brings everything together beautifully.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creamy tanginess; opt for high-quality cheese for the best results.
• Dried Oregano: This Mediterranean herb gives depth; always choose fresh if available for richer flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Grate zest from fresh lemons to infuse brightness into both meatballs and orzo.
• Orzo Pasta: The tiny pasta is perfect in this dish; cook it al dente for optimal texture.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding savory richness to the orzo.
• Olive Oil: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over everything; it adds a lovely finish and flavor boost.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness when sprinkled as a garnish.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Mixing the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, dried oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; overmixing can result in tough meatballs.

Forming the Meatballs: With damp hands (to prevent stickiness), scoop out portions of mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each one on your prepared baking sheet evenly spaced apart.

Baking Time: Slide those beautiful meatballs into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cooking the Lemon Orzo: While waiting for those delicious meatballs to bake, bring a pot of salted water to boil and add in your orzo. Cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain well when done.

Making It Zesty: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine cooked orzo with chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir in some olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper until everything is well combined—don’t forget to taste!

Serve those golden brown Greek chicken meatballs atop a bed of zesty lemon orzo; garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color! Enjoy!

Don’t be surprised if your family asks for this meal more often—it’s that good!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken meatballs first to lock in flavor, then cook the lemon orzo while preparing the sauce for efficiency and perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add feta cheese for a creamy twist that enhances this dish’s Mediterranean flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop to retain moisture.

Cooking these Greek chicken meatballs reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around, sharing laughter and delicious food.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and creates a lighter version of these meatballs.

What should I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Consider serving with a fresh salad or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed cornflakes.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo are a delightful fusion of tender chicken meatballs and zesty orzo, perfect for an unforgettable dinner experience.

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Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Sweet onion
• Fresh garlic
• Feta cheese
• Dried oregano
• Lemon zest
• Orzo pasta
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta, dried oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Using damp hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook orzo in salted water according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
6. In a saucepan, combine cooked orzo with chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve meatballs over lemon orzo, garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs and 1/2 cup orzo (270g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg