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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Savor Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo in One Pan

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Enjoy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo in a quick, healthy one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Substitute with ground turkey for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-friendly option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Replace with vegan hard cheese for a dairy-free variety.
  • 1 large Egg Beaten lightly before mixing in.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano Fresh thyme or Italian seasoning can be used instead.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint Fresh basil is a suitable alternative if mint is unavailable.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Mince finely for better distribution.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Yellow onion or shallots can be substituted.
For the Orzo
  • 1 1/2 cups Orzo Pasta Pearl couscous or rice can make great alternatives.
  • 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest Using two lemons will maximize flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Dry White Wine Optional for deglazing; additional broth or lemon juice works if alcohol-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Always choose a high-quality oil for the best results.
Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Heavy skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, lightly beaten egg, fresh oregano, mint, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, and season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the chilled meatballs in a single layer and sear for about 5-7 minutes, rotating occasionally until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  3. Pour ½ cup of dry white wine into the same skillet to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Add 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, lemon juice and zest, and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then stir in 1 ½ cups of orzo. Cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  4. Nestle the seared meatballs back into the skillet, partly submerged in broth. Cover and reduce heat, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until meatballs are heated through and reach 165°F.
  5. Remove from heat, let rest for about 3 minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Chill the mixture before cooking to maintain shape; ensure meatballs reach safe temperature with a thermometer; avoid over-mixing the ingredients for tenderness.

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