These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo are a flavorful and light Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender, juicy chicken meatballs with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. The bright, zesty lemon flavor ties everything together, while the addition of fresh herbs and feta adds an authentic Greek touch. This dish is perfect for a wholesome dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the best of Greek cuisine in one satisfying dish. The chicken meatballs are seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon zest, creating a juicy, flavorful bite. Paired with the lemony orzo, which soaks up all the bright, tangy flavors, this meal is both light and hearty. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired dinner that’s quick, easy, and nutritious. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family meal or prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Lemon Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just to brown them.

5. Transfer the browned meatballs to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until fully cooked through.

For the Lemon Orzo:

1. While the meatballs are baking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.

2. Once cooked, drain the orzo and return it to the pot.

3. Drizzle the orzo with olive oil, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir to combine.

4. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the orzo and mix gently.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variation: You can experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or dill in both the meatballs and orzo for a different flavor profile.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

• Add Veggies: Incorporate some sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or olives into the orzo for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or orzo for a little heat.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If you’re storing the meatballs and orzo separately, you can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey works great as a substitute and will give a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, form them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I add more vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the meatball mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is orzo gluten-free?

No, orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for the orzo.

Can I use a different pasta if I don’t have orzo?

Yes, any small pasta like ditalini, small shells, or penne can be substituted in place of the orzo.

Can I make the meatballs in advance and freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I prevent the chicken meatballs from being dry?

Adding breadcrumbs and cheese helps keep the meatballs moist. Be sure not to overcook them, as this can make them dry. Bake them until just cooked through.

Can I make the lemon orzo without feta?

Yes, the orzo will still be delicious without feta, especially if you add extra herbs or a little more lemon zest.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs in place of fresh. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

Can I serve this dish with a side salad?

Absolutely! A fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives would pair perfectly with this dish.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a light yet satisfying meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors. The tender, flavorful meatballs paired with the zesty, herb-infused orzo make this dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delicious meal prep option. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or something fresh and vibrant, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and simplicity. Enjoy the bright flavors of Greece right at home!