Description

Bright, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean flavor, these Quick Greek Chicken Meatballs With Lemon Orzo are an easy dinner idea that feels fresh and comforting at the same time. Tender chicken meatballs with garlic, lemon, herbs, and feta are served over creamy lemon orzo for a quick breakfast-for-dinner option, easy dinner, healthy snack-style meal prep, and one of those food ideas you will want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup dry orzo

2 1/4 cups chicken broth

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 cups baby spinach

1/4 cup extra crumbled feta cheese

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, feta, red onion, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined.

2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 16 to 18 pieces.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly golden on the outside. Transfer them to a plate.

4. In the same skillet, add the dry orzo and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast it.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then stir well.

6. Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.

7. Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for 1 to 2 minutes.

8. Sprinkle with extra feta, parsley, and dill, then serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture or the chicken meatballs can turn dense instead of tender.

Add a splash of extra broth when reheating leftovers because the orzo will continue to absorb liquid in the fridge.

Fresh lemon juice and fresh herbs make the biggest difference in flavor, so use them if possible for the brightest finish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Greek-inspired Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 430
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: quick greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo, greek chicken meatballs, lemon orzo, easy dinner, weeknight dinner, chicken meatballs, mediterranean dinner, one skillet meal