Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. That’s exactly what you get with One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Butter Orzo. This mouthwatering recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo for a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Butter Orzo is the epitome of convenience and taste. It’s a one-skillet wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The combination of juicy ground chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs and spices, paired with lemon butter orzo, is a delightful harmony of flavors that feels both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s adaptable—feel free to toss in extra veggies or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken
1 small shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 lemon, sliced, plus 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 cup dry orzo pasta
1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, and reserve the oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Arugula and fresh herbs, for serving
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Tools of the Trade

Before you get started, gather these handy tools to make your cooking experience smooth and easy:

Large skillet: For cooking the meatballs and orzo together.
Mixing bowl: To combine the meatball ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and serving.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping shallots, garlic, and herbs.

Step-by-Step: One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Butter Orzo.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped shallot, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, a generous pinch of salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

With clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate and set aside while you prepare the skillet.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet is not large enough.

Step 4: Add the Orzo and Flavorful Ingredients

After the meatballs are browned, push them to one side of the skillet. Add the orzo to the empty side, along with the reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, and enough water or broth to cook the orzo (about 2 cups). Stir everything together, ensuring the orzo is mixed in with the meatballs.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Add the sliced lemon and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Finish with Butter and Olives

Once the orzo is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the salted butter, chopped green olives, sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and fresh dill. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

To serve, spoon the One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Butter Orzo onto plates and top with crumbled feta cheese, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh dill and arugula. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this dish with your loved ones!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider these substitutes:

Ground chicken: Substitute with ground turkey, beef, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Butter: Use dairy-free butter or olive oil for a vegan option.
Feta cheese: Substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Greek yogurt: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Things That Go Wrong

Cooking can sometimes be unpredictable. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Meatballs falling apart: Make sure you mix the meatball ingredients just enough to combine, but not so much that they become tough.
Overcooked orzo: Keep an eye on the cooking time and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
Too dry: If the orzo seems dry, add a little more broth or water during cooking.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This dish can be enjoyed over multiple days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the orzo.

Common Questions

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, such as ditalini or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground chicken with a plant-based meat alternative or even chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers when cooking the orzo for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Alternatively, cut one in half to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.

Healthy-ish Favorites

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Bring It Home

One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Butter Orzo is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking. With its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, this dish quickly becomes a staple you’ll love to share with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the enticing aromas fill your kitchen. You’re on your way to creating a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite!