These tasty Greek chicken meatballs are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with zesty lemon orzo. It’s a bright and refreshing dish that feels like a little holiday on your plate!
Making this meal is so fun! I love rolling the meatballs and hearing that satisfying sizzle when they cook. Plus, the orzo is super easy to whip up—no fuss, just deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps these meatballs light and juicy. You could use ground turkey for a similar taste or even ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor.
Bread Crumbs: Regular bread crumbs work well, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free bread crumbs to suit dietary needs. Crushed crackers or panko also add great texture!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor punch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste without the milk.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is small and cooks quickly, making it perfect here. If you can’t find orzo, substitute with other small pasta like couscous or even rice, but cooking times may vary.
Lemon: Both the zest and juice of the lemon add brightness. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh is always best when you can.
How Do I Make Sure the Meatballs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
One key to juicy meatballs is not to overwork the meat mixture. Mix just until everything is combined. Here’s how to make perfect meatballs:
- Combine all ingredients gently in a bowl. It should feel slightly sticky but not mushy.
- Use your hands to shape them into balls. Keep them about 1-1.5 inches wide for even cooking.
- Brown the meatballs on medium heat—they’ll enhance flavor significantly. Sear all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
By following these simple steps, you’ll end up with flavorful meatballs that are sure to impress!
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes from start to finish! It’s a great recipe to whip up for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your meatballs are ready to bake.
2. Make the Chicken Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined—don’t worry, it’s therapeutic!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate and set aside while you heat up the skillet.
4. Brown the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides. When they’re done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Toast the Orzo:
In the same skillet (no need to dirty another one!), add the uncooked orzo. Toast it for about a minute, stirring frequently. Then, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine nicely.
6. Combine Meatballs and Orzo:
Carefully nestle the browned meatballs into the orzo mixture in the skillet. This will help them absorb all those tasty flavors as they cook.
7. Bake it All Together:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the orzo is tender. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Finishing Touches:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish your dish with some fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a perfect substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey can have a different moisture content. You may need to check the meatballs a couple of minutes earlier to ensure they are cooked through.
How to Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make your meatballs gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. For the orzo, look for gluten-free orzo pasta made from rice or other gluten-free grains. Cooking instructions will remain the same!
Can I Prepare the Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time! Shape them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before cooking and proceed with the recipe.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the orzo moist. Enjoy your meal again!
