Go Back

Healthy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo is a quick Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring juicy baked chicken meatballs, creamy feta, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon orzo. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 13 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Greek-Inspired Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

For the Greek Chicken Meatballs

  • 1½ pounds ground chicken
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon Orzo

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra crumbled feta cheese for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, oregano, garlic, feta cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  • Roll the mixture into 18 to 20 evenly sized meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter, and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are lightly golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • While the meatballs are baking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender.
  • Remove the cooked orzo from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Fluff with a fork until light and tender.
  • Divide the lemon orzo among serving plates, then top with the warm Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. Finish with chopped parsley and extra crumbled feta before serving.

Notes

  • Ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken.
  • Add baby spinach to the orzo during the final minute of cooking for extra greens.
  • Kalamata olives make a flavorful garnish.
  • For even creamier orzo, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving.