Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo

Ingredients(Servings: 4)

1 lb ground chicken

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Creamy Orzo:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions 

Prepare the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Orzo:

In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add orzo and stir to coat in the garlic and oil.

Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.

Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the orzo is creamy and the cheese is melted.

Combine and Serve: