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Mediterranean cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that has captivated taste buds around the world. Renowned not only for its delicious dishes but also for its health benefits, this culinary tradition emphasizes the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. A cornerstone of many Mediterranean diets is the emphasis on lean proteins, healthy fats, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Among the myriad of delightful dishes hailing from this region, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo stands out as a perfect representation of the cuisine's ethos—freshness and simplicity at its best.

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious recipe for Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. These tender meatballs made from ground chicken blend perfectly with zesty lemon-infused orzo pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious option rich in lean proteins and fresh herbs. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it's a wonderful way to embrace the warmth of Greek culture through food.
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Ingredients
  

For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 small onion, finely diced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Zest of 1 lemon

Olive oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Orzo:

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 1 large lemon

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

Lemon wedges

Extra parsley for topping

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Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, diced onion, egg, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

      Shape Meatballs: Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

        Cook Meatballs: Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden.

          Cook Orzo: In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and simmer, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

            Combine Lemon Flavor: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid and return it to the pot. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.

              Serve: To serve, scoop a generous portion of lemon orzo onto each plate, top with a few Greek chicken meatballs, and garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley if desired.

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                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6 servings