Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo
When it comes to quick, flavorful weeknight dinners, nothing beats Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. This dish brings together the savory goodness of tender chicken meatballs seasoned with classic Mediterranean herbs and the refreshing brightness of lemony orzo pasta. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a balanced meal that feels both comforting and refreshing.
If you’ve been looking for a dinner idea that’s family-friendly, protein-packed, and bursting with flavor, this Greek-inspired recipe checks all the boxes. With every bite, you get juicy meatballs enriched with feta and oregano, paired with a light, citrusy pasta that feels like a burst of sunshine on your plate.
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup feta, crumbled and finely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon each: dried basil, onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill, dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup dried orzo (cooked according to package directions)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional, grated or shredded)
- ½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried dill
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, feta, oregano, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a wooden spoon to gently mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix this will keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into approximately 15 evenly sized meatballs. Keeping them uniform ensures they cook evenly.
3. Cook the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or use a cooking spray) in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the pan, leaving enough space between them to brown properly. Cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping them occasionally with tongs to ensure all sides are golden brown.
Once browned, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat slightly. Continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the Lemon Orzo
In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil (or melted butter), Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dill. Toss until well coated and fragrant.
5. Assemble and Serve
Spoon the lemon orzo onto plates and top with the warm chicken meatballs. Garnish with extra parsley, lemon slices, or a sprinkle of feta for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
About the Recipe
A Taste of Greece at Home
This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Greek flavors, where fresh herbs, citrus, and cheese play central roles. Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy richness to the meatballs, while lemon brightens up the entire dish. Paired with orzo — a small, rice-shaped pasta often used in Mediterranean cooking this meal captures the essence of Greek comfort food.
Variations You Can Try
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even lamb for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the meatball mixture.
- Go low-carb: Replace the orzo with cauliflower rice tossed in lemon juice and olive oil.
- Dairy-free option: Omit the feta and Parmesan or use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture — it can make them dense.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; once they hit 165°F internally, they’re done.
- Prep ahead: You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Make extra: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
These Greek chicken meatballs with lemon orzo are a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate the table by serving them alongside:
- A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
- Warm pita bread with a side of tzatziki for dipping.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Nutrition Insights
At only around 336 calories per serving, this dish provides a balanced combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and carbs. With 25 grams of protein and plenty of fresh herbs, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a dish that’s wholesome, easy to prepare, and full of Mediterranean flair, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is the recipe to try. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels fresh, comforting, and impressive enough for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Give this recipe a try and let your kitchen be filled with the aroma of herbs, lemon, and sizzling chicken. Don’t forget to share your creations your family and friends will thank you for bringing such bright and delicious flavors to the table!
