Imagine biting into a tender Greek chicken meatball, bursting with flavor and paired perfectly with a zesty lemon orzo. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting even the pickiest eaters to the table. You can practically hear those taste buds cheering as they anticipate that first mouthful of deliciousness.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a heartwarming memory waiting to be created. Picture this: it’s a sunny Sunday afternoon, and friends gather around your table as you serve this delightful meal. The laughter fills the air while everyone devours every last bite. Just wait until you see those satisfied smiles!

I still remember the first time I made these meatballs; my family couldn’t get enough of them!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Chicken: Look for lean ground chicken for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential—skip the powdered stuff for maximum flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta lends a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Fresh Herbs (Oregano and Parsley): Always use fresh herbs for a burst of aromatic flavor in every bite.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: The zest brightens the dish while the juice adds refreshing acidity.
• Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully—perfect for this recipe.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing and drizzling over your finished dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the recipe.
• Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch if you’re feeling fancy!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.

Form the Meatballs: With wet hands (to prevent sticking), shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter for even cooking.

Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd. Cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through—about 10-12 minutes total.

Prepare the Lemon Orzo: While cooking meatballs, bring salted water to boil in another pot. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes.

Add Flavor to Orzo: Drain the cooked orzo and return it to the pot. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and pine nuts if using. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.

Serve It Up: Plate your beautiful lemon orzo first; then top with those gorgeous Greek chicken meatballs! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Now that you have this delightful recipe at hand, you’re ready to create something wonderful! Enjoy every bite of these Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken meatballs in a hot skillet, then cook your lemon orzo while they finish baking in the oven for juicy perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add your favorite veggies to the orzo for a personalized twist, making each meal unique.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave.

Memories of making this dish remind me of lively family gatherings where everyone would rave about how delicious it was, bringing smiles and laughter around the table.

FAQ

How can I make Greek chicken meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats as a substitute in your meatball mixture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well for a leaner version without compromising flavor.

What sides pair well with Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?

Consider serving with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables to complement the dish perfectly.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of tender Greek chicken meatballs served over zesty lemon orzo, creating a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Onion
• Garlic
• Feta cheese
• Fresh herbs (oregano, parsley)
• Lemon zest and juice
• Orzo pasta
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Pine nuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using wet hands to prevent sticking.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook meatballs in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, cook orzo in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and return to pot.
5. Stir olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and pine nuts into the orzo; combine gently.
6. Serve the lemon orzo topped with chicken meatballs and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs with orzo (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg