Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488972H45M17S
Total time: PT-488972H45M17S
Cuisine: Greek Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

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With its vibrant, citrusy character and pops of Mediterranean herbs, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is the sort of dinner that instantly transports you to sun-soaked Greek isles—no passport required! This dish delivers perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken meatballs brimming with fresh parsley, oregano, and lemon zest, all nestled on a bed of tender orzo infused with tangy lemon and creamy feta. Whether you’re rounding up the family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a laid-back meal, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both special and comforting.

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is how each ingredient shines while coming together so effortlessly. These basics, many of them pantry staples, create a rich tapestry of Greek flavors, and they truly earn their spot on the team—bringing tenderness, zest, and a pop of color to every bite.

Ground chicken: Lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up all those Mediterranean seasonings.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs and keep them extra tender and moist.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty note and a lovely savory touch to the meatballs.
Red onion: Finely chopped for flavor and a subtle bit of crunch and sweetness.
Garlic: Grants that essential aromatic punch that’s classic in Greek dishes.
Egg: Ensures your meatballs stay together and hold their shape beautifully.
Fresh parsley: Brings color and a garden-fresh pop to both the meatballs and the orzo.
Dried oregano: Taste the essence of Greece in every bite; it’s a must!
Salt and black pepper: Amplify all the other flavors in the dish.
Lemon zest: Brightens every meatball with a beautiful citrusy zing.
Orzo pasta: Tender, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the lemony goodness.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Gives the orzo extra depth and flavor compared to water alone.
Olive oil: Adds richness and silkiness to the lemon orzo.
Feta cheese: Salty, tangy, and oh-so-creamy for the final flourish.
Fresh parsley (again): More parsley means more freshness and vibrant color sprinkled through the orzo.
Lemon juice: Ties everything together with a jolt of tart, sunny flavor.
Salt and pepper (for the orzo): A final seasoning for perfect taste balance.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start your journey by heating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This small step means you’ll have easy cleanup later and guarantees your meatballs won’t stick, so you can focus on nailing that golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (the best tool for this job!) or a sturdy spoon to mix thoroughly until everything’s evenly distributed. You’ll notice the mixture become delightfully aromatic at this point—thanks to all those fresh herbs and citrus.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Scoop up a bit of the mixture and roll it gently between your hands into 1-inch balls. Arrange the meatballs on your prepped baking sheet with some room in between—this helps them brown up evenly. Recipe should yield about 20 meatballs, but shape them as big or small as suits your vibe.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Slide the baking sheet into your hot oven and let those beauties bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden color and an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Once they’re just cooked through, pull them out and set aside, letting the aromas dance in your kitchen.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

While the meatballs are working their magic, bring your broth to a boil in a saucepan. Toss in the orzo and cook per the package—usually about 8–10 minutes until just al dente. Cooking orzo in broth rather than water infuses each grain with so much more flavor right from the start!

Step 6: Combine the Orzo

Drain off any extra broth and return the orzo to the pan. Drizzle with olive oil, then fold in crumbled feta, parsley, and fresh lemon juice. Season with a final flourish of salt and pepper. Stir until everything’s silky and the cheese starts to melt into the warm orzo—pure comfort!

Step 7: Serve

To serve, spoon a mound of bright lemon orzo onto each plate and nestle your juicy Greek chicken meatballs on top. Finish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a touch of drama and freshness. You’ve just created a meal that looks as inviting as it tastes!

How to Serve

Garnishes

For restaurant-worthy flair, sprinkle extra chopped parsley and a handful of crumbled feta over your plated Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. Lemon wedges on the side add a pop of brightness for everyone to squeeze to taste. A drizzle of quality olive oil gives just the right glisten and richness.

Side Dishes

Pair Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo with a crisp Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and red onion. Warm pita bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of lemony goodness, while grilled veggies or a simple tzatziki dip offer a cooling complement.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo family-style for a laid-back gathering, or turn it into a bistro-style lunch bowl with extra greens. For bite-sized fun, skewer the meatballs and set them on a platter of orzo for buffets or picnics. You can even stuff leftovers into pita pockets for a portable lunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool, then store the meatballs and lemon orzo in separate airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days and are just as tasty reheated for lunch or a quick dinner later in the week.

Freezing

Freeze any extra (cooked) meatballs on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Orzo can be frozen, too, but texturally it’s best enjoyed fresh. When you need a quick meal, just thaw the meatballs in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat the meatballs in a covered skillet with a splash of broth. Orzo warms nicely in the microwave or saucepan, with an extra squeeze of lemon and a touch of water to keep it silky. Avoid overheating to preserve the tenderness!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo—it gives a similar light texture and soaks up the herbs and lemon just as beautifully.

How do I keep the meatballs from drying out?

Be sure not to overmix the meatball mixture and don’t bake past 165°F (74°C). The breadcrumbs, parmesan, and onion all help retain moisture, so your Greek Chicken Meatballs stay juicy every time.

Is there a gluten-free option?

You can swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs and choose a gluten-free orzo or even use rice. Every bite of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo will still taste amazing!

Can I prepare anything in advance?

Definitely! You can shape and refrigerate the uncooked meatballs up to a day ahead, and prep the orzo ingredients early. That means Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo comes together in a snap, even on busy evenings.

What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Fresh dill or even a sprinkle of mint adds a different but delightful flavor twist to Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. You can also use dried herbs, just use a bit less!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a Mediterranean getaway right from your dinner table, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo truly delivers! This dish is fresh, bright, and satisfying, perfect for every home cook who loves big flavors and easy preparation—give it a try and savor that first sunny, zesty bite!