Description
Mediterranean magic meets comfort in these lemon chicken feta meatballs with garlic orzo, blending zesty citrus with creamy cheese. Juicy meatballs nestled on herbed orzo promise a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with every satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 egg
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding and Cooking:
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking station by lining a sheet with parchment paper and heating the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring an even cooking environment for the meatballs.
- Create the meatball mixture by combining ground chicken with crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped parsley, fragrant lemon zest, garlic powder, and a balanced blend of salt and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, gently incorporating ingredients without overmixing.
- Carefully craft uniform meatballs by rolling the mixture into consistent spheres, approximately 16-18 total, and arrange them methodically on the prepared baking sheet.
- Slide the meatball-laden sheet into the preheated oven, allowing them to roast for 18-20 minutes until they achieve a golden-brown exterior and reach a safe internal temperature.
- Simultaneously, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook orzo according to package guidelines, ensuring a perfectly al dente texture.
- While orzo drains, transform a large skillet into a flavor hub by melting butter and sautéing minced garlic until its aromatic essence permeates the kitchen.
- Introduce the cooked orzo to the skillet, then elevate the dish by incorporating grated Parmesan, a vibrant splash of fresh lemon juice, and final seasoning of salt and pepper.
- Plate the herbed orzo as a delectable base, crown with the freshly baked chicken feta meatballs, and optionally garnish with additional parsley, crumbled feta, or zesty lemon zest for a bright, finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure meat mixture isn’t overmixed to keep meatballs tender and prevent tough texture.
- Use fresh lemon zest for brightest citrus flavor and avoid bitter white pith when zesting.
- Choose lean ground chicken for healthier protein option without compromising juiciness.
- Customize meatballs by substituting feta with goat cheese or adding red pepper flakes for heat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg