There’s something magical about Mediterranean flavors—the combination of fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and creamy cheese instantly transports me to a seaside taverna in Greece. I first fell in love with Greek cuisine on a summer trip when I tasted the most tender, herb-infused meatballs served alongside a perfectly tangy lemon orzo. It was simple, fresh, and incredibly satisfying.

Back home, I craved those flavors and started experimenting in my kitchen. After many tweaks, this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo dish was born. It’s now a staple in my kitchen, perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even impressing guests with minimal effort. The juicy chicken meatballs, packed with feta, herbs, and garlic, pair beautifully with the bright, lemony orzo, creating a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing.

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavor-packed meal, this recipe is for you.

What Makes This Dish Special?

1. Mediterranean Flavors That Sing

The combination of fresh parsley, dill, feta cheese, and lemon zest gives these meatballs an authentic Greek taste that’s bright, tangy, and satisfying.

2. Juicy, Tender Meatballs

Unlike some chicken meatballs that turn dry, these are kept moist with breadcrumbs, egg, and crumbled feta, which melts into the meat and creates a soft, flavorful bite.

3. One-Pan Lemon Orzo That’s Pure Comfort

Orzo is the perfect side dish—it’s creamy, absorbs the citrusy flavors beautifully, and pairs effortlessly with the meatballs. Cooking it in chicken broth rather than water adds extra depth.

4. Quick, Easy, and Meal Prep Friendly

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Secrets to Making the Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs

Great meatballs aren’t just about mixing ingredients and frying them up—there’s an art to making them juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

1. Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is a game-changer. While lemon juice adds tang, the zest brings a floral citrus note that brightens the whole dish.

2. Use Fresh Herbs When Possible

Dried herbs work, but fresh parsley and dill bring a brighter and more authentic flavor. If you have them on hand, use them!

3. Let the Meatballs Brown Properly

For maximum flavor, don’t rush the browning process. Let the meatballs develop a golden crust before flipping them.

4. Cook the Orzo in Chicken Broth for Extra Flavor

Instead of plain water, using broth gives the orzo a rich, savory base that complements the lemon and Parmesan perfectly.

Ingredients: A Mediterranean Flavor Explosion

For the Greek Chicken Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 egg, beaten
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Orzo

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: A Simple Yet Flavorful Mediterranean Meal

1. Prepare the Meatballs

• In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, feta, parsley, dill, oregano, beaten egg, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
• Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.

2. Cook the Meatballs

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked.

3. Cook the Orzo

• In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil.
• Stir in the orzo and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
• Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and stir in olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.

4. Serve & Enjoy

• Plate the lemon orzo and top with the juicy Greek chicken meatballs.
• Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of feta if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Balanced and Satisfying Dish (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo recipe is a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal. The combination of herby, feta-infused chicken meatballs with zesty, cheesy orzo makes for a light yet satisfying dinner perfect for any night of the week!

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is highly customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

1. Make It Gluten-Free

• Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Use gluten-free orzo or replace it with quinoa for a similar texture.

2. Try a Different Protein

• Ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Lamb would add an extra authentic Greek touch.

3. Add More Veggies

• Stir in cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers into the orzo for extra depth.
• Mix grated zucchini or spinach into the meatball mixture for added nutrients.

4. Make It Dairy-Free

• Swap feta for dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan in the orzo.

Best Ways to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

This dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and accompaniments can elevate the meal even further.

1. Fresh Greek Salad

A crisp salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta, tossed in olive oil and red wine vinegar, complements the richness of the meatballs.

2. Tzatziki for Dipping

A cool, creamy tzatziki sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill is perfect for dipping the meatballs.

3. Warm Pita Bread

Soft, warm pita is great for scooping up the orzo and enjoying with the meatballs.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Simple roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers add color and extra nutrients to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them ahead of time. Store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the orzo from drying out.

3. Can I Freeze These Meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight.

4. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Dish?

• For the meatballs: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
• For the orzo: Add a splash of broth before reheating to bring back its creamy texture.

5. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, couscous, quinoa, or rice would work well as a substitute.

6. What Can I Use Instead of Feta?

If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture, or Parmesan for a saltier bite.

Conclusion: A Mediterranean Feast Worth Making

This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo dish is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of fresh, bold flavors that bring a little bit of the Mediterranean into your home. The combination of juicy, herb-packed meatballs with bright, citrusy orzo creates a perfect balance of comfort and freshness.

Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week ahead, or even hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen. One bite, and you’ll understand why this meal is a true keeper!