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–+ servings

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

A delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors with juicy meatballs and zesty lemon orzo.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken Choose lean ground chicken for a healthier option.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs Provides texture and helps to keep the meatballs moist.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds flavor and helps prevent sticking during cooking.
  • ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese Infuses the meatballs with a tangy richness.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Brings freshness and color to the dish.
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano Adds an earthy flavor characteristic of Greek cuisine.
  • 2 cloves garlic Enhances the overall taste profile of the meatballs.
  • 1 lemon zest Brightens up the flavor with citrus notes.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing all flavors in the dish.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds subtle heat and depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup orzo pasta A small pasta shape that pairs perfectly with lemon flavors.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Provides moisture and flavor while cooking pasta.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Helps to make the orzo creamy and rich.
  • 1 lemon juice Enhances brightness in the orzo.
  • 1 lemon zest For added citrus aroma in the dish.
  • 1 clove garlic Additional garlic enhances flavor in the orzo preparation.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill Adds a fresh herbaceous note if desired.
  • to taste salt and pepper To season according to personal preference.
  • fresh parsley or dill For garnish before serving adds color and freshness.
  • crumbled feta cheese Serve on top for an extra burst of flavor.
  • lemon wedges Serve alongside to squeeze over before eating.

Method
 

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients so you can work efficiently during preparation.
  2. Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Form Meatballs: Once combined thoroughly, use your hands to form small meatballs about one inch in diameter for even cooking.
  4. Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through; about 12-15 minutes should suffice.
  5. Cook Orzo Pasta: While meatballs are cooking, bring chicken broth to a boil in another pot; add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  6. Combine & Serve: Drain any excess liquid from cooked orzo; add butter (or olive oil), lemon juice, additional lemon zest, and minced garlic before fluffing together and serving alongside meatballs garnished with dill or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

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