Description
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are packed with Mediterranean flavors, featuring tender ground chicken, Parmesan, fresh parsley, and aromatic oregano. Served over a bright and zesty Lemon Orzo, this dish is both light and satisfying—perfect for a weeknight meal or a flavorful dinner that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Orzo: In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Season the Orzo: Stir in olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into the cooked orzo. Mix well to combine.
- Serve: Plate the lemon orzo and top with the chicken meatballs. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter option, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or panko.
- Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta over the dish for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki or a Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Greek chicken meatballs, Mediterranean meatballs, lemon orzo, easy chicken recipes, healthy chicken dinner