Print

Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish combining juicy herb-packed chicken meatballs with fresh, citrusy orzo pasta. It’s flavorful, light, and easy to make in under an hour.

Ingredients

  • For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or panko)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing or baking)
  • For the Lemon Orzo:
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: crumbled feta for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, garlic, red onion, parsley, dill or mint (if using), oregano, lemon zest, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until combined.
  3. Form mixture into small meatballs (about 1.5 inches wide) and place on the baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden. Optionally, sear in a skillet first for extra flavor.
  5. While meatballs bake, cook orzo in chicken broth or salted water according to package instructions.
  6. Drain orzo and toss with olive oil or butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Plate the orzo, top with warm meatballs, and garnish with feta and additional herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Add grated zucchini or chopped spinach to meatballs for extra nutrition.
  • Serve with tzatziki, Greek dressing, or sliced olives for more flavor.
  • Use turkey instead of chicken if preferred.
  • Swap orzo with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
  • Store leftovers separately for best texture; reheat with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/savory-greek-chicken-meatballs-with-zesty-lemon-orzo/