Description
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken meatballs seasoned with herbs and feta, served over zesty lemon orzo pasta. It’s easy, quick, and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, chopped small
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup dried orzo pasta
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated or shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried dill
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix just until combined. Form the mixture into 15 meatballs.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs, ensuring space between them. Cook while turning until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Mix the orzo with lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil or butter, Parmesan cheese (if using), and the seasonings until fully combined.
- Serve the cooked meatballs over the warm lemon orzo.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or beef as a protein alternative.
- Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones for a brighter flavor.
- Feta can be replaced with goat cheese or omitted for dairy-free version.
- Add sautéed spinach or roasted peppers for extra nutrients.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water to maintain orzo’s texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
