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–+ servings
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo: A Flavorful Treat

Discover a taste of Greece with these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo, combining lean protein, herb-infused spices, and zesty lemon for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken Can be substituted with ground turkey
  • 1 Large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Plain or panko; gluten-free options available
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for cooking
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese Opt for authentic Greek feta
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; can be substituted with cilantro
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Fresh oregano provides a stronger flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Brightens the dish
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Do not substitute with bottled lemon juice
For the Lemon Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta, quinoa, or rice
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Can use water for a lighter option
  • 2 tbsp Butter Can replace with olive oil for a lighter dish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, dried oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently mix and form into 16-20 meatballs.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Drain any excess liquid from the orzo and return to the pot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, fresh lemon juice, additional lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve the lemon orzo with the Greek chicken meatballs on top, garnished with chopped parsley, crumbled feta, dill, and a lemon wedge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Don't overmix the meatball ingredients to prevent tough meatballs. Cook in batches for even browning. Store leftovers separately to maintain texture.

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