Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground chicken; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup orzo pasta; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

By Lina Baker

March 16, 2025

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There’s something about the aroma of freshly cooked Greek chicken meatballs wafting through the kitchen that can make anyone weak in the knees. Picture this: succulent, herb-infused meatballs nestled atop a fluffy bed of lemony orzo, ready to transport you straight to a sunny taverna in Greece. The tangy zest of lemon mingling with fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds.

Now, let’s not kid ourselves; this dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties or special occasions. It’s perfect for Wednesday nights when you need a little pick-me-up after a long day. Plus, it’s so delicious that your friends will think you’ve been taking cooking classes in Santorini. Trust me; this is one culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing Greek chicken meatball dish is incredibly simple and requires minimal prep time
Customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs and spices
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for family gatherings but versatile enough for meal prep throughout the week

Growing up, I remember my grandmother whipping up her famous Mediterranean dishes every Sunday. The joy and laughter around our dinner table were unforgettable as we devoured her creations.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Use parsley and dill for a fresh Mediterranean touch; they brighten up any dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide that aromatic punch; don’t skimp!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add texture to your meatballs, ensuring they’re both tender and crispy.
Lemon Zest: The zest adds brightness; it’s like sunshine in your mouth!
Orzo Pasta: Cook until al dente; it complements the meatballs perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for cooking the orzo; it enhances flavor without being too salty.
Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it’s essential in Mediterranean cooking.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all your flavors together.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop your fresh herbs finely—this ensures they mix well into your meatball mixture.

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!

Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this keeps cleanup easy.

Sauté and Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs carefully and cook until browned all over—about 8-10 minutes.

Cook the Orzo Pasta: In another pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add orzo pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Add Lemon Flavor: Once orzo is done cooking, drain excess liquid if necessary, then stir in fresh lemon juice and additional zest to brighten up the dish before serving.

With these steps completed successfully (and maybe some dancing while waiting), you’ll find yourself staring down at a plate filled with golden-brown Greek chicken meatballs resting atop fluffy lemon orzo — an absolute feast fit for gods!

Enjoy every bite as these flavors take you on an unforgettable journey!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For optimal results, sear the Greek chicken meatballs first to lock in flavors, then cook the lemon orzo while preparing the sauce. This method saves time and heightens taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs like oregano with fresh dill or mint for a unique twist. Add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep everything tender and juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For juicy meatballs, don’t overmix the chicken; that leads to toughness
Use fresh herbs for brighter flavors and zest your lemon right before serving for an aromatic punch
Always taste as you go – trust your instincts!

My friend once told me that these Greek chicken meatballs changed her life. Family gatherings are now meatball-centric events, filled with laughter and deliciousness, thanks to this recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and still delivers great flavor in these meatballs.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like crushed rice cereal or almond flour.

What can I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Pair them with tzatziki sauce, salad, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

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