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; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 garlic cloves, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Posted on March 15, 2025

The aroma of zesty lemon mingling with the savory scent of grilled chicken is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Picture yourself biting into a tender Greek chicken meatball bursting with flavor and paired perfectly with a light and fluffy bed of lemon-infused orzo. It’s like an instant vacation to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen.

I first stumbled upon this delightful combination during a summer dinner party where everyone was clamoring for seconds. The laughter echoed through the garden as we savored each bite, all while trying not to spill our drinks. This dish not only fuels your taste buds but also warms your heart on those chilly evenings when all you want is comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful recipe combines tangy flavors and tender textures that will have everyone asking for more
It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for gatherings
The vivid colors make it visually appealing on any plate
Plus, it’s versatile; serve it warm or cold for any occasion

Family gatherings are always fun when I whip up these delicious bites; they disappear in seconds, leaving behind only smiles and satisfied grunts.

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Chicken: Choose lean ground chicken for moist meatballs without excess fat.
Fresh Parsley: Bright green parsley adds freshness; use flat-leaf for stronger flavor.
Feta Cheese: Use crumbled feta cheese to add a salty kick that complements the meatballs.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight.
Lemon Zest: Zest from fresh lemons brightens up both the meatballs and orzo.
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the lemon sauce.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep flavors balanced in the orzo.
Oregano and Thyme: Dried herbs infuse lovely Mediterranean flavors into both components of the dish.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely chopping garlic and parsley while zesting lemons to release their refreshing fragrance. Set aside all ingredients for easy access.

Mix the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, parsley, feta cheese, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until fully incorporated.

Shape Meatballs: With clean hands (because no one likes sticky fingers), portion out the mixture into small balls roughly the size of golf balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sear Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place meatballs into the pan (but don’t overcrowd them.) Cook until golden brown on all sides—about 8-10 minutes total.

Cook Orzo: While those beauties are cooking away, bring chicken broth to a boil in another pot. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.

Add Lemon Sauce: Once orzo is ready and drained (don’t forget to reserve some broth.), stir in fresh lemon juice and zest along with a splash of olive oil for richness.

Serve your golden-brown Greek chicken meatballs over a fluffy bed of lemony orzo—garnished with extra parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Enjoy diving into this delicious dish that promises delightful flavors while reminding you that home-cooked meals can indeed be extraordinary.

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

Start by searing the Greek chicken meatballs in a hot skillet, then cook the lemon orzo while preparing your favorite sauce. This sequence helps develop rich flavors and keeps everything warm.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor. Experimenting with spices can also elevate your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep the meatballs juicy and tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly juicy Greek chicken meatballs, ensure not to overmix the ingredients
Allow them to rest before cooking for even better flavor
Always taste your seasoning; a pinch of salt can really make a difference

There’s nothing quite like serving these Greek chicken meatballs at family gatherings; they disappear faster than my dog at dinnertime. Last Christmas, they sparked laughter as my uncle tried to pronounce “tzatziki” after a few glasses of wine.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well but may require additional seasoning for flavor.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F internally for safe consumption.

What can I serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Pair them with salads, pita bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.