Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender, flavorful meatballs infused with fresh herbs and tangy feta cheese pair beautifully with bright, zesty lemon orzo, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that’s both comforting and refreshingly vibrant. It’s a dish that brings the sunny flavors of Greece right to your table, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is delightfully simple but packed with carefully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in building authentic flavor and perfect texture. From the lean ground chicken to the sharp feta cheese, every component brings something unique to the party.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base keeps the meatballs tender and healthy.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them moist.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural glue to hold everything together.
- 1 tsp oregano: Adds that unmistakable Greek herbal note.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Salty and tangy, it enriches the meatballs with authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped: Freshens the dish with a bright, herbal bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used in the orzo to add smoothness and a fruity undertone.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta: The tiny pasta perfectly soaks up lemony goodness.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Brightens the orzo with citrus sharpness that balances the rich meatballs.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Getting your oven warmed up to 375°F (190°C) is the first step so your meatballs cook evenly and develop a lovely golden color without drying out.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
In a mixing bowl, blend together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, crumbled feta, parsley, salt, and pepper. This combination creates juicy meatballs bursting with Greek flavors. Once mixed thoroughly, form the mixture into evenly sized balls so they cook uniformly.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Place your meatballs on a baking sheet, giving them enough space to cook through without steaming each other. Bake them for 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked fully and have a beautiful light golden crust. The feta melts gently inside, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
While the meatballs are baking, boil the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and immediately toss with the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The orzo should glisten with just enough lemon tang and olive oil richness to complement the meatballs perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Plate a generous portion of lemon orzo, then nestle several warm meatballs on top. The contrast between the citrus-kissed pasta and the savory, herb-packed chicken meatballs is a match made in Mediterranean heaven. Serve immediately and enjoy every delightful mouthful.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that enhances the overall presentation and taste. A few crumbles of feta on top shine as a final flourish.
Side Dishes
Light sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad or some roasted vegetables pair wonderfully, keeping the meal balanced and bright, without overwhelming the main star of the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive feel, serve the meatballs and lemon orzo in individual shallow bowls with lemon wedges on the side to encourage extra zest. Alternatively, skewer the meatballs and serve with a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a fun, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs and orzo in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the meatballs and orzo separate if possible to maintain their textures.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Store for up to 2 months, and freeze the orzo separately as it may become mushy when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a saucepan with a splash of water over low heat or in the oven to preserve their moisture. Warm orzo on the stovetop with a little olive oil and lemon juice to refresh its flavors.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well with the herbs and feta in this recipe, maintaining the lean and healthy profile.
Is it possible to cook the meatballs on the stove instead of baking?
Yes, you can gently pan-fry the meatballs over medium heat until browned and cooked through, but baking keeps them lighter and less greasy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts to keep the texture without gluten.
Can I prepare this dish without feta cheese?
Feta adds a signature tang, but if you prefer, you can omit it or substitute with a mild cheese like ricotta for a different texture.
What type of lemon should I use for the lemon orzo?
Fresh, juicy lemons work best—preferably organic if you’re using the zest. The fresh juice brightens the dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe that keeps you coming back for more. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it feels like you’re bringing a slice of Greece into your kitchen. So give it a try, and watch it quickly become one of your favorite dinners to share with friends or family. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo offer a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal. Juicy ground chicken meatballs flavoured with feta, oregano, and parsley are baked to perfection and served atop vibrant, zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta for a refreshing and fulfilling dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Orzo
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly and thoroughly.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Bake the Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook the Orzo: While the meatballs bake, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo thoroughly and return it to the pot or a bowl. Toss the orzo with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and salt to taste, mixing well to evenly coat the pasta and infuse it with bright lemon flavours.
- Assemble the Dish: Place a serving of lemon orzo on each plate and top with the warm, baked Greek chicken meatballs. Serve immediately and enjoy this zesty, protein-packed meal.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley and good quality feta for the best flavor.
- Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs, but panko can be used for a lighter texture.
- Adjust lemon juice and salt in the orzo to your taste preference.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked through by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Leftover meatballs and orzo store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
