Name: Divine Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon 40 Min
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; ½ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup finely chopped red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Greek chicken meatballs lemon have become my go-to weeknight dinner, and I’m so excited to share this Greek chicken meatballs recipe with you! I remember the first time I tried authentic Greek chicken meatballs with lemon; the combination of bright citrus, savory herbs, and tender chicken was pure magic. The aroma alone, with that hint of garlic and lemon, filled my kitchen and made my whole family gather around the table. This easy baked Greek chicken meatballs lemon version is just as flavorful, and the lemon orzo makes it a complete, satisfying meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Incredible flavor explosion: Tender chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs create a taste of the Mediterranean.
Quick preparation: You can have these ready in about 40 minutes total, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and wholesome: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, these are a guilt-free delight.
Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients that won’t break the bank, making it great for families.
Family-favorite meal: Even picky eaters adore these juicy meatballs and the bright lemon orzo.
Versatile: These lemon herb chicken meatballs Greek style are great for dinner or even as an appetizer.
Authentic taste: Experience classic lemon herb chicken meatballs Greek style that are both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to enjoying delicious Greek chicken meatballs lemon. For the meatballs, you’ll need 1 lb ground chicken, which is leaner than beef and perfect for that authentic Greek flavor. We’ll bind them with ½ cup breadcrumbs and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for richness. To get that signature aroma, we’ll add ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, and the zest of 1 lemon. An 1 large egg acts as a binder, while 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper bring the herbs and seasoning. For the lemon orzo, grab 1 cup orzo pasta, 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth for cooking the pasta, 2 tbsp olive oil for richness, ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled for that salty tang, and another ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus the Juice of 1 lemon for that bright finish. Don’t forget Salt and pepper, to taste to season the orzo perfectly.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken, ½ cup breadcrumbs, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper, plus the Zest of 1 lemon.
Step 3: Gently mix everything together with your hands until it’s just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so be gentle!
Step 4: Roll the mixture into about 1-inch sized balls. These are your gorgeous Greek chicken meatballs.
Step 5: Place the formed meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet. You want them to have a little space around them so they bake nicely. These easy baked Greek chicken meatballs lemon will be perfectly golden.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm to the touch.
Step 7: While the meatballs are baking, let’s get the orzo ready. Bring 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. The bubbling broth is the first sign of that bright lemon orzo.
Step 8: Add the 1 cup orzo pasta to the boiling broth. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente – tender but still with a slight bite.
Step 9: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid if needed, then return the orzo to the warm saucepan.
Step 10: Stir in 2 tbsp olive oil for a little richness, ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled for that salty, authentic Greek flavor, and another ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped for freshness.
Step 11: Squeeze in the Juice of 1 lemon and season the lemon orzo with Salt and pepper, to taste. Give it a good stir to combine everything beautifully.
Step 12: Serve these delicious Greek chicken meatballs lemon right over the creamy, lemony orzo. Enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean delight!

Divine Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon 40 Min - Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these meatballs absolutely perfect. Follow these tips for the best flavor and texture every time you make this Greek chicken meatballs recipe.

Don’t overwork the meat mixture when forming the meatballs; gentle handling ensures tenderness.
For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the meatball mix.
Ensure your lemon zest and juice are fresh – it makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
If you love a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.

What’s the secret to perfect Greek chicken meatballs lemon?

The secret to perfect Greek chicken meatballs lemon lies in the balance of fresh ingredients and not overmixing. Using fresh lemon zest and juice, good quality herbs, and handling the ground chicken gently are key. This method ensures they stay moist and flavorful. For more insights on achieving perfect meatballs, check out these Korean BBQ meatballs.

Can I make Greek chicken meatballs lemon ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator on the baking sheet. When ready to cook, just place them in the preheated oven as directed. This is a great part of meal prep Greek chicken meatballs lemon!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Greek chicken meatballs lemon?

A common pitfall is overcooking, which dries out the meatballs. Bake them just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Another mistake is overmixing the meat; this can make the meatballs tough and dense. Mix just until everything is combined. For more tips on cooking chicken, you might find this guide on garlic honey lime chicken helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Serving these delicious Greek chicken meatballs lemon is half the fun! They are fantastic piled high over the bright lemon orzo as a complete meal. For a lighter option, try them alongside a crisp Greek salad with a tangy vinaigrette. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a side of yogurt lemon sauce for dipping – it’s one of the best Greek chicken meatballs lemon sauce pairings I know. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a full Mediterranean flavor experience. Consider pairing them with a refreshing cucumber tomato onion salad.

Nutrition Facts for Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Here are the estimated nutritional facts for one serving of these delightful Greek chicken meatballs lemon:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy chicken options, explore these honey lime chicken tacos.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

Properly storing and reheating your Greek chicken meatballs lemon ensures they stay delicious and safe to eat. Once the meatballs and orzo have cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning ahead, these meatballs are perfect for meal prep Greek chicken meatballs lemon; you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the meatballs and orzo on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying, or microwave them until heated through. This makes enjoying your Mediterranean chicken meatballs lemon flavor a breeze any day of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon

What are Greek chicken meatballs with lemon?

Greek chicken meatballs with lemon are tender, flavorful meatballs made from ground chicken, seasoned with classic Greek herbs like oregano and parsley, and infused with bright lemon zest and juice. They’re often served with a side, like lemon orzo, to create a complete, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. You can find more information on Mediterranean flavors in this Mediterranean chicken wraps recipe.

Can I add feta cheese to the meatballs themselves?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you love the taste of feta, feel free to mix about ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese directly into the meatball mixture along with the other ingredients. It adds a wonderful salty tang that complements the lemon and herbs beautifully, making them even more delicious.

What’s the best way to serve Greek chicken meatballs with feta and lemon?

These Greek chicken meatballs with feta and lemon are incredibly versatile. They are divine served over a bed of fluffy lemon orzo, as the recipe suggests. Alternatively, you could serve them with roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or even as an appetizer with a side of tzatziki or a lemon-yogurt dipping sauce. They’re perfect for any occasion!

Are these meatballs healthy?

Yes, these Greek chicken meatballs lemon are considered quite healthy! They’re made with lean ground chicken, packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, and baked instead of fried. The use of whole ingredients and the bright lemon flavor make them a nutritious and delicious option for a balanced meal. For other healthy chicken dishes, consider this healthy salmon avocado salad.

Variations of Greek Chicken Meatballs Lemon You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love to play around with it to discover new flavors. If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs, here are a few ideas for your Greek chicken meatballs lemon.

Gluten-Free Delight: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the breadcrumbs for ½ cup almond flour or finely chopped nuts like walnuts. This gives you a similar binding effect with a lovely nutty undertone, enhancing the Mediterranean chicken meatballs lemon flavor.
Ground Turkey Swap: You can easily substitute the ground chicken with 1 lb ground turkey. The cooking time might vary slightly, so just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Flavor Boost: Want to add even more herbal notes? Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh dill or 1 tablespoon of fresh mint, finely chopped, into the meatball mixture. This really brightens up the lemon flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the meatball mix for a subtle spicy twist on these delicious meatballs.