Description
A vibrant Mediterranean one-pot dish featuring tender herb-infused chicken meatballs in a zesty lemon orzo base. Light yet hearty, it uses oregano, mint, and caramelized onion to create a balanced, flavorful meal in under an hour. No alcohol or pork, making it halal-friendly and easy for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs (680g) ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional: vegan parmesan alternative)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried mint
1 tbsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp white wine vinegar or extra lemon juice (no alcohol)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 garlic clove, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp olive oil (for orzo base)
Optional: 1 tsp red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, mint, salt, and pepper. Form into 24 small meatballs (about 1 1/2 tbsp each)
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Brown meatballs, turning occasionally, until golden. Remove from skillet
In the same skillet, sauté the red onion and minced garlic in 1 tbsp olive oil until softened. Add orzo pasta, lemon zest, vinegar/lemon juice, and broth. Bring to a boil
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed
Return meatballs to the pot and stir gently to warm them. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs and more lemon zest
Notes
Substitute orzo with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb/molasses spin
Add chopped fresh parsley or mint at serving time for extra brightness
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water to rehydrate
Use red wine vinegar (non-alcoholic) if desired
For vegan version, skip meatballs entirely and replace with tofu or chickpea “meatballs”
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs + 1/2 cup orzo
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg