Irresistible Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo – Ready in 35 Minutes!

There’s something magical about tender, juicy meatballs infused with zesty lemon, creamy ricotta, and aromatic herbs. Pair them with a buttery, garlicky orzo, and you have a dish that feels like comfort food but with a bright, fresh twist. Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo is a one-pan wonder—simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining, this is it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright & Fresh: The lemon zest and juice add a vibrant tang that elevates the flavors.
• Incredibly Tender Meatballs: Thanks to ricotta and Parmesan, these chicken meatballs are melt-in-your-mouth soft.
• One-Pan Convenience: The garlic orzo cooks in the same skillet, soaking up all those delicious pan drippings.
• Fast and Simple: This delicious meal comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• Protein-Packed: A nutritious yet indulgent dish loaded with flavor and wholesome ingredients.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a tender meatball that’s delicately flavored with garlic, oregano, and lemon, with just the right amount of creamy richness from ricotta. The garlic orzo is buttery, slightly nutty, and infused with the warm, savory essence of Parmesan. Each bite is a balance of freshness, creaminess, and heartiness—a true delight for your taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Garlic Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Essential Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or large pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microplane (for zesting)
• Plate (for resting meatballs)

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• Ground Chicken: Swap with ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
• Ricotta Cheese: Substitute with cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crispiness or almond flour for a low-carb option.
• Oregano: Try fresh thyme or basil for a different herbal note.
• Parmesan Cheese: Swap with pecorino romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
• Orzo: Replace with couscous or rice if you prefer a different grain.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a cookie scoop. Place them on a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate to set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Garlic Orzo

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the orzo, coating it in the garlic oil.

Step 5: Simmer the Orzo

Add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them warm through for about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing. Enjoy this flavorful dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables!

What to Serve With This Dish

• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with arugula, cucumbers, and a light lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the orzo.

Expert Tips for the Best Meatballs

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to dense meatballs. Mix just until combined.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: This ensures evenly sized meatballs that cook uniformly.
• Golden Crust is Key: Browning the meatballs properly adds depth of flavor. Let them sit in the pan for a minute before turning.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in their juices.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs separately on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth.
• Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it possible to bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Make the meatballs ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. You can also cook the orzo ahead and reheat it with a bit of extra broth.

Q: What can I use instead of orzo?
A: Try quinoa, farro, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini.

Conclusion

There’s so much to love about Lemon Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Garlic Orzo—it’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying! Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Try these other delicious recipes:

• Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
• Goat Cheese Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
• Spinach Basil Pesto Recipe

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a review, share your photos on Pinterest, and tag me in your kitchen creations. Let’s cook and enjoy together!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbs: ~45g
• Fats: ~14g

Enjoy every zesty, creamy, and garlicky bite!

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