If you’re craving a light, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that still satisfies, look no further than these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo. Juicy, herby meatballs are served over fluffy orzo infused with lemon zest and olive oil, creating a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both vibrant and comforting.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a healthy lunch option, this dish bursts with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus flavor. It’s simple to make, family-friendly, and easy to scale up.
Ingredients:
For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Zesty Lemon Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled feta for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, dill, garlic, oregano, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
- Using damp hands or a cookie scoop, form into 1½-inch meatballs (about 16–18 meatballs).
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, cooking for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C). Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–9 minutes). Drain well.
Step 5: Finish the Orzo
- In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in lemon zest and juice, then add cooked orzo and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in parsley and optional feta.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the lemon orzo and top with chicken meatballs. Garnish with extra parsley, a lemon wedge, and crumbled feta if desired.
Variation:
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the meatballs.
- Grain swap: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for the orzo.
- Vegetarian option: Use falafel or roasted chickpeas in place of meatballs.
- Dairy-free: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
COOKING Note:
To save time, you can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through. This method is easier for large batches and requires less cleanup.
Serving Suggestions:
- Meal prep bowls: Divide into containers with roasted veggies for easy lunches.
- With pita and tzatziki: Serve alongside warm pita bread and a spoon of tzatziki sauce.
- Add greens: A side salad of arugula or cucumber-tomato salad rounds out the meal.
- For a crowd: Serve family-style on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.
Tips:
- Ground turkey or lamb can be used instead of chicken.
- Let the meatball mixture rest for 5–10 minutes before shaping—it makes forming easier.
- Zest the lemon before juicing—it’s hard to do in reverse!
- Orzo can be made in advance and reheated with a splash of broth or water.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~27g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~480mg
Values will vary based on brands and substitutions.
❓FAQs
Can I freeze the meatballs?
- Yes! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
Can I make the orzo ahead of time?
- Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Yes! The lemon and herbs are mild and bright, and the meatballs are easy to chew and enjoy.
What kind of lemon should I use?
- Fresh lemons only! Bottled lemon juice doesn’t provide the same vibrant flavor or zest.
Can I grill the meatballs?
- Yes—grill over medium heat, turning until browned and cooked through. Skewering them helps with flipping.
Conclusion:
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo is a meal that’s full of flavor and freshness while still being simple and satisfying. From the herby, juicy meatballs to the citrusy, fluffy orzo, every bite is light yet hearty, making it a perfect go-to for weeknight dinners or weekend meal prep.
Serve it warm, cold, or with your favorite Mediterranean sides—this is one of those recipes you’ll make again and again.