These Greek Chicken Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with ground chicken, herbs, and spices, they’re perfect for a tasty meal. Plus, they’re baked, making them easy to whip up!
Serve them with a side of lemon orzo for a zingy twist. Trust me, the bright lemon flavor will make your taste buds dance! 🍋 I love treating my family to this dish; they can’t get enough!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for your meatballs. If you want, you can swap it for ground turkey or even lean beef for a different flavor profile. I love using ground chicken for its light texture!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tanginess to the meatballs. No feta? Try crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier taste. Just remember, it adds flavor, so keep something cheesy!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta that cooks quickly and pairs well with the meatballs. If you can’t find orzo, try using rice or another small pasta like acini di pepe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also freshness. If you’re not a fan, replace it with fresh dill or mint. They’re both great in Greek dishes!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Juicy?
To keep your meatballs tender and juicy, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed. Also, using ground chicken with some fat content helps! Baking at the right temperature (400°F) ensures they cook evenly without drying out.
- Shape the meatballs gently. Use a cookie scoop for even sizes.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this keeps them from steaming.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer – they should be 165°F for safety.
This method will help ensure every bite is flavorful and moist! Enjoy your cooking!
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Easy Lemon Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Easy Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake those delicious meatballs. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This will help the meatballs not stick!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, cumin, and salt and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until it’s all well incorporated. It should feel like a moist mixture ready to be formed into meatballs!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Now comes the fun part! Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each ball so they can cook evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 18-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and slightly golden on the outside. You might want to check them at 18 minutes to see how they’re doing!
5. Cook the Lemon Orzo:
While your meatballs are baking, it’s time to prepare the easy lemon orzo. In a medium saucepan, bring your chicken broth (or water if you prefer) to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add the Flavor:
Once cooked, drain the orzo if necessary and return it to the saucepan. Stir in the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season it with some salt and pepper to your taste. Mix everything well until the butter is melted and you’re left with creamy, zesty orzo!
7. Serve Up Your Dish:
Now, it’s time to plate! Serve a generous portion of lemon orzo on each plate and top it with several of those delicious Greek chicken meatballs. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for that pop of color and freshness!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs with Easy Lemon Orzo! It’s a delicious dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean!
FAQ for Greek Chicken Meatballs with Easy Lemon Orzo
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even lean beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the protein you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatballs and Orzo?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers. The meatballs can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the orzo should be eaten within 2 days for the best quality. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave!
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape them and bake when you’re ready to cook!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for extra nutrition. You could also serve it with pita bread or tzatziki for a complete Greek-inspired meal!