Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo! They’re not just a meal; they’re a burst of sunshine on your plate! I absolutely love how the flavors of fresh herbs and zesty lemon blend together to create something that feels light yet satisfying. Plus, these meatballs are baked, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing any of that savory goodness. Trust me, you’ll want to add this dish to your weekly dinner rotation. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, feta, and that bright lemony orzo makes every bite a delight! Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome!
Ingredients List
Gather all these fresh ingredients, and you’re halfway to a mouthwatering dinner! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (I usually go for plain, but feel free to experiment!)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (the saltiness is just divine)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (don’t skimp on this; it adds a pop of color and flavor!)
- 1 egg (to bind those meatballs together)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to your taste; I like a little extra for flavor)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta (this little pasta is a game-changer)
- 2 cups chicken broth (for that rich, savory goodness)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested (this is where the magic happens!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling and flavor)
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. You’ll thank yourself later when it all comes together smoothly!
How to Prepare Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of making these delicious Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo. I promise it’s easier than you think, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will be totally worth it!
Preparing the Meatballs
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands and mix everything together until it’s well incorporated—just don’t overdo it! You want to keep the mixture light and airy. Now, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in size. This consistency helps them cook evenly, so try to keep them uniform.
Baking the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you shape those meatballs. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (thank me later!). Place the meatballs on the sheet, making sure they’re spaced out a bit. Bake them for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This way, they get that lovely golden-brown color and stay juicy inside. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; nobody likes dry meatballs!
Cooking the Lemon Orzo
While the meatballs are baking, grab a pot and bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add in the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. This is so important because you want that perfect bite! Once it’s cooked, drain any excess liquid and stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. Trust me, this brightens up the orzo like nothing else!
Combining and Serving
Now comes the fun part! Serve the baked meatballs over a generous scoop of lemony orzo. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for extra flavor and garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for that fresh touch. It’s all about presentation, right? Your friends and family are going to be so impressed!
FAQ Section
Can I use another type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or even lean beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that chicken and turkey will give you a lighter flavor, while beef will add a heartier taste. If you go with beef, you might want to adjust the seasoning a bit to balance the flavors. But no matter what meat you choose, these meatballs will still be fabulous!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just place any uneaten meatballs and orzo in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep things nice and moist. Easy peasy!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You bet! These Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Or, if you want to go a step further, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Wholesome: These Greek chicken meatballs are lean and packed with flavor, making them a perfect choice for a nutritious meal.
- Quick to Make: In just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table—ideal for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of feta, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon in the meatballs and orzo will have your taste buds dancing!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these tender meatballs, making it a hit for the whole family.
- Versatile: Serve them over lemon orzo, in a salad, or in a pita for a fun twist—there are so many ways to enjoy this dish!
- Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time or frozen, making them a great option for meal prepping.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t overmix the meatball mixture—this keeps them tender and juicy. Also, make sure you preheat your oven before baking; it makes a huge difference in how evenly they cook. If you find your meatballs are sticking to the baking sheet, a light spray of cooking oil can help prevent that. When cooking the orzo, remember to stir occasionally to avoid clumping. And don’t forget that zesting the lemon is key for that vibrant flavor! If you find the orzo too dry after mixing in the lemon juice, just add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of these Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and other essential nutrients! Enjoy your healthy meal, knowing you’re fueling your body with goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo is a breeze! After your delicious meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy your tasty creation again later!
When it’s time to reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a quick and easy option. If you prefer, you can warm them up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist and flavorful. Just be careful not to overheat, as we want those meatballs to stay juicy! You’ll have a delightful meal ready to go in no time!
What to Serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
When it comes to pairing sides with my Greek chicken meatballs and lemon orzo, there are so many delicious options to consider! Here are a few of my favorites:
- Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil complements the flavors beautifully. The crunch and brightness add a lovely contrast!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and herbs make a colorful and nutritious side.
- Hummus and Pita: Serve some creamy hummus with warm pita bread for dipping. It’s a great way to add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your meal.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A side of refreshing tzatziki made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill is perfect for drizzling over the meatballs or as a dip!
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a nice crunch and pairs wonderfully with the meatballs. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!
These sides not only complement the dish but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combinations!
For more delicious recipes, check out this Greek salad or this baked cod with garlic butter!
Imprimer
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo: 5 Vibrant Flavors
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Gras
Description
Greek chicken meatballs served with lemon orzo.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Form mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
- In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add orzo.
- Cook orzo until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest into the orzo.
- Serve meatballs over lemon orzo.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Baking and Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 1g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 3g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: greek chicken meatballs, lemon orzo, healthy dinner
