Greek Chicken Meatballs and Orzo

Greek Chicken Meatballs and Orzo is a wholesome and flavor-rich meal that brings a Mediterranean flair to your table. Tender, herbed chicken meatballs are nestled into a bed of creamy orzo, infused with lemon, garlic, and broth. The addition of cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese enhances the complexity of the dish while keeping it fresh and vibrant.

This one-skillet meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve to guests. The orzo acts almost like a risotto, soaking up all the savory juices and bright citrus flavors. Meanwhile, the meatballs remain juicy and aromatic, thanks to the fresh parsley, mint, and oregano. It’s a comforting yet light dish that embodies the best of Greek-inspired cuisine.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Orzo:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, egg, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Stir in garlic and orzo, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.

4. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10–12 minutes.

5. Stir in cherry tomatoes, olives, feta, lemon juice, dill, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo mixture. Heat through and serve warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Greek Chicken Meatballs and Orzo is a dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in a single skillet—vibrant, aromatic, wholesome, and deeply satisfying. With roots in traditional Greek flavors and a modern twist on one-pan meals, this recipe has quickly become a go-to favorite for home cooks seeking simplicity without sacrificing taste. Combining seasoned ground chicken meatballs with lemony orzo pasta, briny olives, tangy feta, and juicy tomatoes, this dish offers a rich harmony of textures and flavors. But beyond its delicious appeal, this recipe brings numerous benefits that make it one of the best meal choices for families, food lovers, and health-conscious eaters alike.

A Culinary Nod to Greek Traditions

At its heart, this recipe is inspired by the vibrant ingredients common in Greek kitchens. Ground meat seasoned with herbs is a staple in Greek cooking, often seen in dishes like keftedes (Greek meatballs) or soutzoukakia (spiced meatballs in tomato sauce). The use of parsley, mint, oregano, and garlic in the meatballs nods to these classic preparations, while the lemon juice and fresh dill in the orzo reflect the bright and refreshing flavors that define Mediterranean cuisine.

What sets this dish apart is how it seamlessly blends tradition with convenience. Rather than serving the meatballs with separate sides, the orzo functions as both a starch and a flavor vehicle, absorbing the chicken broth and aromatic ingredients in one pot. It transforms the meal into a cohesive and comforting experience while saving time and cleanup effort.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

This recipe shines for several reasons—flavor, texture, nutritional balance, and versatility. Here’s a deeper look into why it stands out:

• Balanced Flavor Profile: The meatballs are herby and savory, enhanced by garlic and red onion. The orzo is cooked in chicken broth, absorbing all the flavor while being lightened up by lemon juice and complemented by salty feta and olives. It’s a dish with layers of taste—earthy, tangy, creamy, and savory.
• Perfect Texture Combination: Juicy meatballs paired with tender orzo, bursts of fresh tomato, and the occasional creamy crumble of feta make each bite exciting and comforting. The textures contrast and complement each other beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality dish at home.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Ground chicken provides lean protein, while orzo delivers satisfying carbs. Olives add healthy fats, and tomatoes bring in antioxidants like lycopene. The herbs—parsley, dill, and mint—add not just flavor but also digestion-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits. Altogether, it’s a well-rounded, health-conscious choice for those seeking clean, energizing meals.
• Easy and Efficient: The one-skillet format is perfect for busy weeknights. There’s no need to cook multiple components separately—everything comes together in the same pan, cutting down on prep, cleanup, and cooking time. Plus, it’s easy to make in larger batches for meal prep or leftovers.
• Highly Adaptable: You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives, swap in different vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even use whole-wheat orzo for added fiber. This flexibility means the recipe can suit a range of dietary needs, including gluten-free (with gluten-free pasta), low-carb (by substituting orzo), or dairy-free (without feta).

Ideal for All Occasions

Though simple in concept, this dish is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or special family meal. The vibrant colors—golden meatballs, red tomatoes, green herbs, white feta—make for a visually appealing presentation. It can be plated rustic-style in the skillet for a cozy, communal meal or elegantly served in individual bowls for a more formal experience.

It also makes an excellent meal prep option. The components hold up well when stored, and the flavors continue to deepen after a day in the fridge. Packed lunches or quick reheat dinners will still taste freshly made.

Flavor Customization Ideas

One of the joys of this dish is its adaptability. Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe to make it your own:

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa to the orzo for a spicy kick.
• Add greens: Toss in chopped spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it creamier: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream to make the orzo extra silky.
• Boost the umami: Include sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms in the orzo base for a richer depth of flavor.

The Mediterranean Diet Connection

This dish aligns closely with the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which is often praised for its role in promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall longevity. With lean protein, healthy fats, fresh vegetables, herbs, and minimal processed ingredients, it’s a naturally nutrient-rich and balanced meal.

The use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and whole ingredients encourages a slower, more mindful style of cooking and eating—one that celebrates fresh, seasonal produce and quality over complexity. It’s the kind of dish that brings families together at the table and invites seconds without guilt.

Tips for Success

To ensure this recipe turns out perfect every time, consider these pro tips:

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—it should be just combined for the most tender texture.
• Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over the salt level, especially since feta and olives add saltiness.
• Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving so their juices settle, keeping them moist.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor—it really lifts the entire dish.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Meatballs and Orzo is a standout meal for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, rooted in Mediterranean culinary traditions, and designed for ease and nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, an impressive dish for guests, or a make-ahead lunch full of zest and comfort, this recipe delivers every time.

Its bright, fresh ingredients and harmonious textures make it a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. And the best part? You only need one pan to make it all come together. Simple, flavorful, and soul-satisfying—this is one recipe you’ll return to again and again.