Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: March 15, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing Greek chicken meatball recipe offers ease of preparation without sacrificing flavor
You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available
With vibrant colors and aromas, it’s visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for family dinners but versatile enough for meal prep

I’ll never forget the time I made these Greek chicken meatballs for a potluck. The bowl was empty before I could say “Opa!”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep the meatballs light yet flavorful.
Fresh Herbs: Use parsley and dill for that authentic Mediterranean touch; fresh herbs elevate any dish.
Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves to add depth; it’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together.
Breadcrumbs: Choose plain breadcrumbs; they help bind the mixture without overpowering the flavors.
Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemons to infuse brightness into your meatballs and orzo; it’s like sunshine on your plate.

For the Lemon Orzo:

Orzo Pasta: A small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly; it pairs beautifully with lemon.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to enhance flavor without excessive saltiness; it adds richness to the orzo.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness; it’s essential in Mediterranean cooking.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t skimp on these as they bring all flavors to life.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Workspace: Clear your kitchen counter and gather all ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while dreaming of those juicy meatballs.

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined—don’t overdo it!

Form Meatballs: With clean hands (no one likes sticky fingers), roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet—feel free to channel your inner chef as you do this.

Bake to Perfection: Pop those delicious spheres into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell divine!

Prepare the Lemon Orzo: While the meatballs are baking away happily, bring water or low-sodium chicken broth to boil in another pot. Stir in orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Add Flavor to Orzo: Once cooked, drain any excess liquid from the orzo and stir in olive oil along with more lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste—it should be bright and zesty!

Serve those glorious Greek chicken meatballs over a bed of lemony orzo. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!

This delightful dish not only brings vibrant flavors but also creates an atmosphere filled with laughter and love around your dining table. So grab your apron and get ready for compliments galore!

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 meatballs in a hot pan first, then cook the lemon orzo simultaneously to save time and enhance flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add feta cheese to the orzo for an extra zing of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to keep everything tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste that elevates your dish significantly
Always check your meatballs for doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F internally
A splash of olive oil in the orzo prevents sticking and adds richness

Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would dig into these Greek chicken meatballs, sharing laughs and seconds before I could even breathe.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.

Can I freeze Greek chicken meatballs?

Yes, freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to three months.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety.