Zesty Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

The aroma of herbs wafts through the kitchen as you imagine sinking your teeth into juicy Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo. The perfect blend of spices dances on your palate, while the vibrant lemon provides a refreshing zing that lifts your spirits. You can almost hear the Mediterranean waves crashing nearby as you prepare this delightful dish.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about bringing people together. Picture a sunny terrace filled with laughter and clinking glasses as friends and family gather around to enjoy your culinary masterpiece. Trust me, once you whip up these Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo, they’ll be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my best friend devoured them so quickly that I half-wondered if they were secretly part of an Olympic eating competition.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep the meatballs light yet flavorful.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the meatballs without making them dense.
• Fresh Parsley: Use finely chopped parsley for a burst of freshness in every bite.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon enhances flavor while keeping everything bright and zesty.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic offers deep flavor and aroma, making your kitchen smell divine.
• Orzo Pasta: Cooked al dente, orzo serves as the perfect base to soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil elevates both the meatballs and orzo.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those vibrant flavors.
• Dried Oregano : This herb is key for that authentic Mediterranean taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and juice. Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing.

Shape the Meatballs: Using clean hands (or an ice cream scoop if you’re fancy), form small balls about two inches in diameter. Place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you preheat your oven.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—don’t forget to flip them halfway for even browning.

Cook the Orzo Pasta : Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt to keep it from sticking.

Add Flavorful Touches : Once both components are ready, mix cooked orzo with additional lemon juice and garnish with extra parsley if desired. This step transforms plain pasta into something truly special.

Serve it Up: Plate your fluffy lemon orzo topped generously with golden-brown Greek chicken meatballs. Don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil over everything—it’s like giving your dish a shiny new outfit!

Now you’ve turned ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will leave everyone wanting more! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken meatballs for a crispy exterior, then cook the lemon orzo simultaneously for perfect timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out fresh herbs or add veggies like spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.

Cooking these Greek chicken meatballs reminds me of family gatherings where laughter echoed as we devoured our creations together.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and will still deliver delicious flavors in this recipe.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to chill them before cooking; this helps them hold their shape better.

What should I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Pair them with a fresh salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a delightful Mediterranean dish featuring juicy meatballs paired with bright, zesty orzo. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

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Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Fresh parsley
• Feta cheese
• Lemon zest and juice
• Garlic cloves
• Orzo pasta
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Dried oregano

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and juice until combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
4. While the meatballs are baking, cook orzo according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil and salt.
5. Combine cooked orzo with extra lemon juice and garnish with parsley before serving. Plate the orzo topped with Greek chicken meatballs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg