Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen? These Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo are about to become your new go-to dinner! Juicy, herby, and full of flavor, they’re paired with bright, citrusy orzo for a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Fun fact: in Greece, food isn’t just about eating—it’s about sharing love and joy with those around you. And trust me, when you serve these meatballs, you’ll be spreading plenty of both. Quick to make, family-friendly, and budget-conscious, this recipe checks all the boxes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

If you love this recipe, don’t miss our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad—it makes the perfect fresh side. Now, grab your apron—it’s time to cook!

What Are Greek Chicken Meatballs?

These aren’t your average meatballs! Greek chicken meatballs are tender, juicy bites of ground chicken mixed with garlic, oregano, feta, and parsley—the essence of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. They’re baked to golden perfection, making them lighter than traditional fried versions but just as satisfying.

And if you’re worried about dry chicken meatballs, don’t be! The feta and onion keep them moist, while the lemon orzo adds the perfect burst of freshness. Think of it as a Greek-inspired twist on the classic spaghetti-and-meatballs combo.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Flavorful & Juicy: Packed with herbs, spices, and feta for maximum flavor.

• Balanced & Refreshing: The zesty lemon orzo brightens the dish beautifully.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.

• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.

• Budget-Friendly: Skip takeout and enjoy a homemade Mediterranean feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1/2 onion, finely chopped

• 1 egg

For the orzo:

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Olive oil for cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, feta, onion, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Form Meatballs: Shape into 1–1.5-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

5. Cook the Orzo: In a saucepan, heat olive oil and toast the orzo for 1 minute. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (10–12 minutes).

6. Add Citrus: Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and season to taste.

7. Serve: Place meatballs on a bed of lemon orzo. Garnish with extra parsley and feta, if desired.

What to Serve With Greek Chicken Meatballs

• A crisp cucumber-tomato salad with olive oil and oregano

• Warm pita bread for dipping

• A chilled glass of lemonade or a light white wine

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

• Avoid Overmixing: Keeps the meatballs tender.

• Substitutions: Ground turkey works just as well as chicken.

• Make Ahead: Freeze raw meatballs for easy weeknight meals.

• Extra Flavor: Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze meatballs for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes. Add a splash of broth to the orzo when reheating to keep it moist.

And there you have it—Savory Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon Orzo, a dish that’s hearty, bright, and totally irresistible. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.