Description
A delightful combination of tender chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs, served over creamy lemon orzo.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped oregano, mint, minced garlic, and red onion in a large bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper and mix gently with your hands.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the meatballs, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Pour dry white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits and let reduce for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then bring to a simmer. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Nestle the meatballs back into the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 3 minutes, and garnish with parsley and olive oil.
- Serve immediately, ensuring each portion includes meatballs and lemon orzo.
Notes
Make-ahead tips: Prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance. For a healthier option, use ground turkey or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg