Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs and orzo)

Description

A comforting dish featuring juicy chicken meatballs and orzo pasta, infused with Italian herbs and spices.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (12-15 total).
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sear meatballs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, bring chicken broth to a boil and stir in the orzo. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. When the orzo is nearly cooked, add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
  6. Return meatballs to the skillet, toss gently with orzo mixture, and allow to simmer for a couple of minutes before serving.
  7. Serve in bowls, topping with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking on stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg