Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

Published: July 11, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delicious recipe highlights how easy it is to create mouthwatering Greek flavors at home
The bright flavors make it a hit at any gathering or dinner table
You can easily prepare the meatballs ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Plus, the vibrant colors make this dish as beautiful as it is tasty!

I still chuckle when I think about how my youngest thought we were having “meatball cupcakes” because they looked so good baking away in the oven.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat; turkey works too if you prefer.
Fresh Parsley: Use bright green parsley for freshness; it adds a wonderful pop of flavor and color.
Garlic Cloves: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for an aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish. satisfying garlic butter noodles.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings tanginess and creaminess; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up flavors beautifully, making it perfect for our dish.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling on top for added richness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious flavors lurking in your ingredients.
Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add an extra crunch and nutty flavor to finish off your dish beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped parsley, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork it!

Form the Meatballs: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet; this makes cleanup easier later.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. They should smell heavenly!

Cook the Orzo Pasta: While your meatballs are baking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.

Toss with Lemon Sauce: In a large serving bowl, combine cooked orzo with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional toasted pine nuts. Toss gently so everything gets coated nicely.

Serve It Up!: Place baked meatballs on top of the lemon orzo. Garnish with extra parsley or feta cheese if desired. Prepare yourself for some serious flavor fireworks!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken meatballs until golden brown, then cook the lemon orzo while preparing the sauce for maximum flavor and efficiency. For more inspiration, check out this air fryer chicken rissoles recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor that suits your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried ones lack that vibrant kick
Don’t skip chilling the meatballs before cooking; this helps them hold their shape perfectly
A splash of lemon juice at serving brightens everything up, trust me!

The first time I made Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo, my friends were convinced I’d secretly become a professional chef! Their smiles were priceless. spicy honey chicken recipe.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and provides a leaner option for these meatballs.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or serve with spicy tzatziki for a kick.

What side dishes pair well with Greek chicken meatballs?

For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with zucchini recipe.

Consider serving with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

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