Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs Served with Zesty Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth (or water); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lemon (zest and juice); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Greek Chicken Meatballs Served with Zesty Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your dining table. This incredible recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a refreshing orzo pasta that is infused with zesty lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Let’s dive into how to create this Mediterranean-inspired dish!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

This dish is a culinary delight for several reasons. First, the combination of ground chicken, herbs, and spices creates Greek-style chicken meatballs that are incredibly flavorful. The addition of zesty lemon orzo elevates the dish, making it a perfect balance of protein and carbs. If you’re looking for a healthy option, these healthy Greek chicken meatballs are gluten-free and can easily be made with whole wheat breadcrumbs. The recipe is also versatile; you can add chicken meatballs with feta cheese for an extra punch of flavor or pair it with Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki for a refreshing dip. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!

Greek Chicken Meatballs Served with Zesty Lemon Orzo - Greek Chicken Meatballs Served - main visual representation

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

Gather these items:

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon (zest and juice)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs Served Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking the meatballs.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Once cooked, drain the orzo and return it to the saucepan. Stir in olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Once the meatballs are done, serve them over a bed of zesty lemon orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Pro Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

Keep these in mind:

Be sure to use fresh ingredients, especially herbs, to enhance the flavor of your meatballs.
If you want to make baked Greek chicken meatballs even healthier, consider using ground turkey.
For a twist, try adding spinach into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Always check the internal temperature of the meatballs; they should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Greek Chicken Meatballs Served with Zesty Lemon Orzo - Greek Chicken Meatballs Served - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

Now that you’ve created these delicious meatballs, here are some serving suggestions:

Serve with a side of Greek chicken meatballs in tomato sauce for a comforting meal.
Pair them with a fresh salad to balance the meal, perhaps a simple Greek salad.
For a dipping option, serve with tzatziki sauce alongside the meatballs.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dish also makes for an excellent meal prep Greek chicken meatballs option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Meatballs Served

What’s the secret to perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs Served?

The secret lies in the balance of moistness and flavor. Be sure to mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat. This keeps the meatballs tender.

Can I make Greek Chicken Meatballs Served ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them before serving for a fresh taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Greek Chicken Meatballs Served?

Ensure your meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking. Also, avoid crowding the baking sheet as this can lead to steaming rather than baking.

Variations of Greek Chicken Meatballs Served You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Chicken meatballs with feta cheese for extra creaminess.
Add some lemon zest to the orzo for an extra zing.
Create Mediterranean chicken meatballs by incorporating olives and sundried tomatoes into the mix.