Description
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these succulent rosemary chicken meatballs served atop a bed of tomato-infused orzo pasta. A wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (minced)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Orzo:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
- grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Orzo:
- Finish and Serve:
In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 16) and place on the baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with olive oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until soft, then add garlic and orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in herbs and adjust seasoning. Top the tomato orzo with warm rosemary chicken meatballs and garnish with grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- You can use turkey instead of chicken, and substitute rosemary with thyme for a different flavor.
- Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking the orzo for a boost of greens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg