Why make this recipe

One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo is a great dish for busy weeknights. It combines flavorful chicken meatballs with tender orzo pasta, creating a satisfying meal all in one skillet. The ease of preparation and cooking in one pan makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your dinner without the fuss.

What Makes This Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Special

This dish is special because it brings together the best of both worlds: juicy chicken meatballs and creamy orzo pasta, all infused with garlic and Italian herbs. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the simplicity of the recipe means you won’t spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken (454 grams)
• 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs (55 grams)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (35 grams)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta (about 278 grams)
• 2/3 cup cream (any kind – heavy cream will give a richer flavor, light cream will be a bit thinner)
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional grouping

• Dry Ingredients: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper
• Wet Ingredients: Milk, egg, oil, chicken broth, cream

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, parsley (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, garlic, onion powder, and pepper. Mix well but don’t overmix. Let the mixture sit for 10-20 minutes.
2. Roll the mixture into 1 to 1 1/4” meatballs.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and sear the meatballs until golden brown. Remove them from the pan and cover with foil.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits.
6. Bring the broth to a boil, then add orzo, cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Place the meatballs on top of the orzo, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.
8. Serve and enjoy!

Optional step details

• Prep: Combine the ingredients and let the mixture sit to enhance flavors.
• Cooking: Each step is done in one skillet for convenience.
• Finishing touches: After simmering, make sure to taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Helpful tips for One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

• Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
• Browning the meatballs adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Using low sodium chicken broth helps control the salt level in the dish.

Special Ingredient Notes

• Ground Chicken: Lean and flavorful, provides a great base for the meatballs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the meatballs and sauce.
• Orzo Pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Cream: Depending on your choice, it can make the dish richer or lighter.

How to serve Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

Serve this dish hot, garnished with extra parsley or freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to store Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

Fridge

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezer

To freeze, portion out the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by adding a splash of broth to the skillet and warming over low heat.

Variation

For a different flavor profile, try adding some spinach or kale to the sauce in the final minutes of cooking. This adds nutrition and a pop of color to the dish.

Notes

This recipe was developed with love and the intention to create a comforting, easy dinner option for families. Enjoy the flavors and the time spent cooking together!

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FAQs

Can I use beef or turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with turkey or beef for different flavors.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo made from rice or another gluten-free grain.

What can I serve as a side dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this dish.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze the raw meatballs in advance, then cook them directly from frozen.

What if I don’t have orzo pasta?

You can substitute orzo with another small pasta like ditalini or even rice, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an easy way to bring family together at the dining table. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!