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Herbed Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Zest and Orzo

This dish features juicy chicken meatballs seasoned with oregano, cooked until browned, and served over lemon-infused orzo pasta. The final dish has tender meatballs with a slightly crispy exterior and al dente pasta, complemented by bright, citrusy flavors and aromatic herbs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken preferably breast or thigh meat, coarsely ground
  • 2 tsp dried oregano fresh or dried
  • 1 lemon lemon zest finely grated, from about half the lemon
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth preferably low sodium
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated, then form into 12-16 small meatballs and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through and golden on the outside.
  2. While the meatballs bake, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until it begins to turn golden.
    1 lb ground chicken
  3. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the uncooked orzo pasta and stir to coat the pasta with the broth and oil. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
    1 lb ground chicken
  4. Remove the baked meatballs from the oven and add them directly to the skillet with the cooked orzo. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top, gently tossing to combine everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ensure meatballs are heated through.
    1 lb ground chicken
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot, garnished with additional lemon zest or herbs if desired.