Imagine biting into a juicy Greek chicken meatball, where every mouthful bursts with flavors of fresh herbs and spices. The zesty aroma of lemon orzo wafts through the air, making your taste buds dance in anticipation. Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a sun-soaked Mediterranean terrace, where laughter and good food flow freely.
Now picture this: a family gathering where everyone gathers around the table, eagerly waiting for me to unveil my culinary masterpiece. The smiles on their faces when they take that first bite? Priceless. Crispy Flounder with Lemon Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weekday dinner or a festive holiday feast. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken meatballs recipe offers delicious flavor with minimal effort in the kitchen
- The dish is visually stunning, featuring vibrant colors that brighten up your dinner table
- With easy-to-find ingredients, it’s adaptable to accommodate any dietary needs
- Perfect for impressing guests or cozy family dinners!
Cooking these delightful meatballs always brings back memories of my cousin’s wedding, where I proudly served them as part of the buffet. Everyone raved about how tender and flavorful they were!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for a healthier option that still packs great flavor.
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Fresh Parsley: Choose bright green parsley to add a fresh taste and lovely color.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess that perfectly complements the meatballs.
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Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; it brings everything together beautifully.
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Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest for an aromatic citrus kick that elevates the dish.
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Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the meatballs.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances both flavor and moisture in the meatballs.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step as it brings out all the other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, crumbled feta, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl Mix gently until everything is well incorporated.
Shape into Meatballs: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you prefer), form small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cook the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You can also pan-fry them if you prefer a crispier texture.
Prepare the Lemon Orzo: While the meatballs are baking, cook orzo according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add Flavor to Orzo: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add cooked orzo. Toss in additional chopped parsley and lemon juice for freshness. Stir well until heated through.
Serve It Up!: Plate your lemony orzo topped with those glorious Greek chicken meatballs. BBQ Chicken Sliders Garnish with extra parsley or crumbled feta if desired. Enjoy every tantalizing bite!
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
Sear the chicken meatballs first to lock in juices, then cook the lemon orzo while they simmer. This ensures everything finishes perfectly at the same time and avoids overcooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs like dill for parsley, or add feta cheese to your meatballs for extra flavor. Personalizing these elements elevates the dish to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor and avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender
- Prepping your ingredients ahead of time will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable!
Sharing this recipe with friends during a cozy dinner party sparked joy when they raved about how delicious it was—definitely a moment I’ll cherish!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?
For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Drumstick Recipes recipe.
The best way is to sear meatballs before cooking them in sauce or broth.
Can I freeze leftovers of Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers; just store them in airtight containers.
How long do Greek chicken meatballs last in the refrigerator?
They can last up to three days in an airtight container in your fridge.
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek chicken meatballs paired with zesty lemon orzo. Each bite is a celebration of fresh herbs, tangy feta, and aromatic garlic, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these succulent meatballs served over fluffy orzo will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Ready in under an hour, this recipe promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups water (for cooking orzo)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, feta, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch) and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cook orzo according to package instructions in boiling salted water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cooked orzo; toss with additional parsley and lemon juice.
- Serve the meatballs over lemon orzo and garnish as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 meatballs with orzo (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg