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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Emily

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
  3. Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
  5. While the meatballs are baking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain any excess liquid if needed.
  6. Return the orzo to the pot. Stir in olive oil, feta cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Spoon the lemon orzo into bowls or onto a serving platter. Top with the hot chicken meatballs, and sprinkle with extra parsley or feta if desired.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meatball mixture.
  • If using lean chicken breast mince, avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
  • Fresh parsley is best, but dried can be substituted in the meatball mix (use half the amount).