Description
Juicy Greek chicken meatballs served over bright, lemony orzo with fresh herbs and a light, savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, oregano, mint, garlic, and red onion. Season with salt and pepper and mix gently.
2. Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Sear meatballs for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up browned bits, and let reduce by half.
6. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, then bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Add red pepper flakes if using, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Stir in orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
9. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and cook for 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
10. Remove from heat, rest for 3 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and authenticity.
If the orzo thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve with extra lemon wedges for added brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg