There’s something truly magical about Greek-inspired flavors—the bright citrusy zest, the aromatic herbs, and the comforting balance of savory and tangy elements. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors, you’re in for a treat!
Today, I’m sharing my Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe—a perfect weeknight dinner that’s light, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. These juicy, herb-infused chicken meatballs pair beautifully with a vibrant lemon orzo, making for an irresistible meal that’s both easy to prepare and a joy to eat.
If you love Greek cuisine or simply crave a flavorful homemade dish, this recipe is for you! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter so you never miss a new recipe. Let’s dive in!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Packed with Mediterranean flavors – The combination of lemon, garlic, oregano, and parsley gives this dish an authentic Greek taste.
- Healthy and light – Ground chicken keeps the meatballs lean, while fresh herbs and lemon zest add freshness without extra calories.
- Fast and simple – Ready in 40 minutes, ideal for hectic weeknights.
- Versatile and meal-prep friendly – These meatballs are great for meal prep and pair well with various sides!
Taste and Texture
- Meatballs: Juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned with hints of lemon and herbs.
- Lemon Orzo: Light, bright, and buttery with just the right amount of citrus kick!
Health Benefits
- Lean protein from ground chicken.
- Antioxidants and vitamins from fresh herbs and lemon.
- Whole grains if using whole wheat orzo.
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Zester
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Chicken: Swap for ground turkey or ground beef.
- Breadcrumbs: Use panko or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Orzo: Substitute with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a different texture.
- Cheese: Try feta instead of parmesan for a stronger Greek flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into 12-14 meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes if necessary.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Orzo
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until aromatic.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss everything together and finish with fresh parsley.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the lemon orzo, top it with the juicy Greek meatballs, and garnish with extra parsley. Enjoy this light yet satisfying dish!
What to Serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs
- Tzatziki Sauce – A cool, creamy dip to complement the lemony flavors.
- Greek Salad – Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives make for a refreshing side.
- Roasted Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus pair well.
- Warm Pita Bread – Great for scooping up every delicious bite!
Expert Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Don’t overmix – Overmixing can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.
- Use a cookie scoop – This ensures evenly sized meatballs that cook at the same rate.
- Sear before baking – It locks in moisture and gives the meatballs a golden crust.
How to Store Leftovers
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per serving: ~310 kcal
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare these meatballs in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs?
A: Yes, but homemade meatballs taste fresher and more flavorful.
Q: What if I don’t have orzo?
A: Substitute with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a similar result.
Conclusion
This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe is packed with bold flavors, easy to make, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or looking for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment, share your thoughts, and don’t forget to post your creation on Pinterest!
Looking for more easy and delicious recipes? Check these out:
- Goat Cheese Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
- Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta
- Spinach and Orzo Salad with Cranberries and Almonds
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fats: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy your meal, and happy cooking!