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Mediterranean Zesty Greek Chicken: 1 AMAZING Recipe

Mediterranean Zesty Greek Chicken

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This Mediterranean Zesty Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe combines succulent chicken meatballs with a zesty lemon orzo for a vibrant and flavorful dish. It’s a quick and healthy meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until everything is well combined.
  3. Form Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake Meatballs: Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Cook the Orzo: While the meatballs are baking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Add the orzo, lemon zest, and juice. Cook according to package instructions until the orzo is al dente.
  6. Combine and Toss: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess broth and toss the orzo with a bit of olive oil and additional lemon juice if desired.
  7. Serve Together: On a platter, arrange the lemon orzo and top it with the baked chicken meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
  8. Enjoy: Serve warm to family and friends.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach to the orzo.
  • Crumbled feta cheese can be sprinkled on top before serving.
  • Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a different taste.
  • Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber.
  • Replace orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
  • Experiment with herbs like dill or thyme.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freeze uncooked meatballs individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.

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