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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo in a cast iron skillet

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Juicy chicken meatballs infused with fragrant herbs, nestled beside a silky lemon-brightened orzo in a single skillet.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs preferably whole-wheat
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ red onion finely diced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, beaten egg, oregano, mint, garlic, and red onion. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Refrigerate for 15 minutes for better shape retention.
  3. Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Sear meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Deglaze pan with white wine, scraping up browned bits. Reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer gently. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Stir in orzo. Cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Return meatballs to pan, cover, and cook 5 minutes more until meatballs reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.