Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 large egg; ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko); ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking); 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth (or water); 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil); Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional); Fresh parsley or dill; Crumbled feta cheese; Lemon wedges

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

1 large egg

½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 garlic cloves, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups chicken broth (or water, for cooking the orzo)

2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

1 garlic clove, minced

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

Crumbled feta cheese (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Using a small scoop or your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 ½ inches in diameter, making 16-20 meatballs.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).

Step 4: Cook the meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: While the meatballs cook, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Once cooked and most liquid absorbed, drain any excess. Return orzo to pot and stir in butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Mix until butter melts and orzo is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Divide the lemon orzo among four plates or bowls. Top each serving with 4-5 chicken meatballs.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, additional feta cheese, and serve with lemon wedges for extra zing.

Tips & Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a subtle heat.

Substitute ground turkey if you prefer a milder flavor.

Fresh dill adds authentic flavor, but fresh mint or basil can be interesting alternatives.

For a creamy orzo, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and orzo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through. Warm the orzo gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating or cooking.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

To make a vegetarian version, try using a combination of cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, and feta cheese to form meatballs. Adjust seasonings accordingly, and bake or pan-fry as you would with the chicken meatballs.