Go Back
+ servings
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Flavor-Packed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Delight

No ratings yet
Enjoy these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo, a flavorful Mediterranean dinner option that's quick, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken can substitute with ground turkey
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs whole-wheat or gluten-free panko
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese leave out for dairy-free option
  • 1 large Egg can use a flax egg for plant-based
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Oregano dried oregano works in a pinch
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Mint swap with basil if preferred
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced, fresh is best
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion finely chopped
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta can substitute with pearl couscous or rice
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth use vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice fresh is preferred
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
  • 1/2 cup Dry White Wine can substitute with extra broth
For Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil choose high-quality for best flavor
  • to taste Salt adjust according to taste
  • to taste Pepper adjust according to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Heavy skillet
  • parchment-lined baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, fresh oregano, fresh mint, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form and Chill the Meatballs: With slightly damp hands, scoop the mixture and form it into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
  3. Sear the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs, searing for about 4 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and scrape the bottom to release browned bits. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, bringing to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cook the Orzo: Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for about 8–10 minutes until al dente.
  6. Combine and Finish Cooking: Nestle the meatballs back into the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes before serving, garnished with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chilling the meatball mixture helps retain shape and moisture during cooking. Don't skip this step!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!