Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo – Fresh, Bright & Mediterranean-Inspired

If you’re craving something hearty yet refreshing, Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo will become your new favorite dinner. Juicy, herb-infused chicken meatballs served over buttery lemon orzo — it’s the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and bright Mediterranean flavor.

This dish delivers everything you love about Greek cuisine — aromatic herbs, tangy lemon, and a hint of garlic — all tied together in a light, satisfying meal. The chicken meatballs are juicy and flavorful, featuring fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, and crumbled feta cheese for a savory richness. Paired with the creamy, citrusy orzo, it feels indulgent but remains wholesome and fresh.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for the family, or hosting friends, this recipe is impressive yet simple. It’s comfort food that feels light and nourishing — like a sunshine-filled dinner straight from the Aegean coast.

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Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down what makes each part of this meal shine — the juicy Greek chicken meatballs and the zesty lemon orzo.

For the Chicken Meatballs

Ground Chicken:
Lean and mild, ground chicken absorbs all the Mediterranean herbs and spices beautifully. You can substitute with ground turkey if preferred.

Feta Cheese:
Adds creamy, salty richness inside the meatballs and keeps them moist. Use full-fat Greek feta for the best flavor.

Breadcrumbs & Egg:
Help bind the meatballs while keeping them light and tender. Panko breadcrumbs are perfect for extra fluffiness.

Herbs & Aromatics:
Fresh parsley, oregano, and dill bring that signature Greek aroma. Garlic and onion powder deepen the savory flavor.

Lemon Zest:
Adds brightness and freshness that complements the feta and herbs perfectly.

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For the Lemon Orzo

Orzo Pasta:
Small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs sauce beautifully. It provides a creamy, risotto-like base without the effort.

Butter & Olive Oil:
The combination gives richness and that signature silky mouthfeel.

Garlic & Lemon Juice:
Garlic adds aroma, while fresh lemon juice gives a zesty, refreshing contrast to the savory meatballs.

Parmesan & Fresh Herbs:
Stirred in at the end for a luxurious, cheesy finish with Mediterranean flair.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix — it keeps the meatballs tender.

3. Roll into 1½-inch balls and place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden.
   (Internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C.)

Optional: For a beautiful golden crust, broil for the last 2 minutes.

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Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Orzo

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups orzo pasta

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2½ cups chicken broth

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in the orzo and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.

5. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

6. Stir in lemon zest, juice, Parmesan, and herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

7. For a creamier consistency, add a splash of warm broth or a drizzle of olive oil.

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Step 3: Combine and Serve

Plate the lemon orzo, top with warm chicken meatballs, and drizzle with a touch of olive oil. Garnish with:

• Crumbled feta cheese

• Fresh parsley or dill

• A squeeze of lemon juice

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Meal Prep Friendly: Store meatballs and orzo separately; combine before serving.

• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted zucchini for extra nutrients and color.

• Creamier Version: Stir ¼ cup Greek yogurt into the orzo after cooking for a tangy, creamy twist.

• Grain-Free Option: Swap orzo for cauliflower rice or quinoa.

• Make It Spicy: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the meatballs or a pinch to the orzo for a kick.

• Extra Flavor: Drizzle tzatziki or a lemon-garlic yogurt sauce over the top for added creaminess.

• One-Pan Shortcut: Brown the meatballs in a skillet, remove them, cook the orzo in the same pan, then return meatballs to absorb the sauce.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish feels fancy enough for entertaining but easy enough for weeknights.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners

• Meal prep or lunch boxes

• Dinner parties or date nights

• Spring and summer gatherings

Serve with:

• Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta

• Roasted vegetables (like eggplant or peppers)

• Warm pita bread or naan for soaking up extra sauce

• Tzatziki or hummus for dipping

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Nutritional & Health Notes

Each serving (about 4–5 meatballs + 1 cup lemon orzo) contains roughly 480–520 calories, depending on cheese and oil used.

Nutrition Highlights:

• High Protein: Chicken and feta provide lean protein to keep you full.

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and cheese offer heart-healthy fats.

• Complex Carbs: Orzo provides energy while staying light.

• Vitamins: Lemon juice adds vitamin C and a refreshing finish.

To make it lighter:

• Use low-fat feta and reduce olive oil.

• Substitute whole wheat orzo for extra fiber.

• Serve with a side salad instead of bread.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly — it’s just as lean and flavorful with the same seasonings.

2. Can I cook the meatballs in a skillet instead of baking?
Yes. Pan-sear in olive oil for 8–10 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

3. How do I keep the meatballs juicy?
Don’t overmix the meat mixture, and add ingredients like feta and breadcrumbs to retain moisture.

4. Can I make the orzo ahead of time?
Yes, but it thickens as it cools. Add a splash of broth or olive oil before reheating to loosen it.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free orzo (or rice) and gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

6. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Definitely. Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or skillet.

7. What sauces pair well with this dish?
Tzatziki, lemon-garlic yogurt sauce, or even a drizzle of tahini dressing pair beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.

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