Description
These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo are bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors. The juicy, herb-packed chicken meatballs pair perfectly with tangy, citrusy orzo for a light, yet hearty meal. Ready in 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a refreshing gathering dish.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken Meatballs:
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1 lb ground chicken (or turkey)
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1/3 cup almond flour (or finely chopped nuts, optional)
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1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
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2 teaspoons fresh dill (chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
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1/2 tablespoon onion powder (or finely chopped scallion)
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2 teaspoons dried oregano
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2 teaspoons ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)
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For the Lemon Orzo:
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
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Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
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- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients: ground chicken, almond flour (or chopped nuts), fresh parsley, dill, garlic, crumbled feta, onion powder, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender. Roll the mixture into 1½-2 inch meatballs. -
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip the meatballs, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. Set aside on a plate. -
Cook the Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the meatballs for extra flavor. Add the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the broth. Stir in lemon juice, olive oil, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed. -
Serve:
Place the lemony orzo on plates, top with the Greek chicken meatballs, and garnish with fresh parsley. Optional: Serve with additional crumbled feta and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Notes
Add Toppings: Top with tzatziki sauce, roasted vegetables, or a fresh tomato salad for extra flavor.Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta in place of orzo, or try couscous for a different twist.Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of dill, try using more parsley or basil for the meatballs.
