Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with these Greek Chicken Meatballs served atop a vibrant lemon orzo! This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Each juicy meatball bursts with Mediterranean herbs, perfectly complemented by the zesty orzo, making every bite a mini vacation to the sun-soaked shores of Greece.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, red onion, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain excess liquid if necessary, then stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve the meatballs on a bed of lemon orzo, garnished with additional parsley or dill if desired.
Notes or Tips
- For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt to the meatball mixture.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey for the chicken for a healthier option.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese for an added touch of flavor and authenticity.
Cooking Techniques
Creating these delectable meatballs and flavorful orzo requires basic mixing and roasting techniques. Mixing the ingredients until just combined will ensure a tender meatball, while roasting them at the right temperature allows for a beautiful golden exterior without drying out the meat.
FAQ
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple salad or steamed vegetables complement the meal beautifully.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo truly capture the essence of Mediterranean cooking. With their fresh flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up, enjoy the compliments, and savor every delicious bite!