Delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe

The aroma of sizzling meatballs fills the kitchen, blending perfectly with the bright zest of lemon-infused orzo. Picture this: tender Greek chicken meatballs bathed in fragrant spices and served alongside fluffy orzo that dances on your palate like a Mediterranean holiday.

I can still hear my friends’ laughter during our last dinner party when I unveiled this dish. It became the star of the night, leaving everyone begging for seconds and the recipe!

I remember the first time I made these Greek chicken meatballs; my family couldn’t stop raving about them!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
• Fresh Parsley: Use finely chopped parsley to add freshness and color to your dish.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic delivers robust flavor; choose firm cloves for the best results.
• Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemon zest to brighten up both the meatballs and orzo.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully; choose whole wheat for added nutrition.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances richness and helps brown the meatballs beautifully.
• Red Onion: Finely diced red onion gives a sweet crunch that balances well with other flavors.
• Cumin and Oregano: These spices infuse your dish with warm Mediterranean vibes.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped parsley, crumbled feta, minced garlic, lemon zest, diced onion, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Form the Meatballs: With wet hands (to keep things from sticking), shape mixture into 1-inch balls. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go.

Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Cook the Orzo: Meanwhile, cook orzo according to package directions in salted boiling water. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Create the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant before adding cooked orzo and some reserved pasta water for creaminess.

Add Finishing Touches: Toss in lemon juice and zest into orzo along with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot alongside those glorious meatballs topped with fresh parsley!

This recipe not only delights your taste buds but also brings joy to every gathering you host! So roll up your sleeves; it’s time to create something unforgettable!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken meatballs first to lock in flavors, then cook the lemon orzo while they bake, ensuring a perfect balance of textures.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs like dill for oregano, or add feta cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness that will surprise your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

I remember the first time I made Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo; my friends devoured them and begged for seconds, making me feel like a culinary rock star!

FAQ

Can I freeze Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?

Yes, freeze them separately and reheat when ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Consider pairing them with a fresh salad or tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.