Description
Juicy Greek chicken meatballs packed with herbs and feta, served over bright, lemony orzo for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley or dill
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, oregano, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form mixture into 16–20 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches each.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through to 165°F. Set aside.
4. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil and cook orzo according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes.
5. Drain excess liquid if needed, then stir in butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic. Mix until creamy and combined.
6. Season orzo with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Divide orzo among plates and top with meatballs.
8. Garnish with herbs, feta, and lemon wedges before serving.
Notes
Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
You can bake the meatballs at 400°F for 18–20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Add spinach or roasted vegetables to the orzo for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs with orzo
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg