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+ servings
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Perfectly Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Delight

Enjoy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo, a vibrant, protein-packed meal capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken or ground turkey or lean pork
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs or gluten-free panko
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese omit for dairy-free
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Oregano or dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint or basil
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 small Red Onion finely chopped
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta or pearl couscous
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
  • 1/4 cup White Wine optional
  • 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil high-quality

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • heavy skillet
  • parchment-lined tray

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, oregano, mint, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined, then form into 1-inch meatballs.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, searing for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Bring to a simmer and stir in the orzo. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes until al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
  4. Nestle meatballs into the orzo, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
  5. Remove from heat, let rest, and optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill the meatball mixture before forming for better shape. Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are cooked to 165°F. Toasting breadcrumbs enhances flavor.

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