Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite—One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo! This recipe brings together juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs and perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all simmered in a cozy blend of spices and vegetables. It’s a comforting meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. With minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are nicely browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and mix it with the vegetables, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Just before serving, stir in the dried basil for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Notes or Tips
This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making extra for leftovers. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand, and if you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. This recipe is also a great base for adding leftover vegetables for a more hearty meal!
Cooking Techniques
For perfectly browned meatballs, make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding them; this helps to create that wonderful golden crust. Also, keep an eye on the simmering stage—overcooking the orzo can lead to a mushy texture, so it’s best to check it a couple of minutes before the time is up.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and works very well in this recipe.
What can I do if I don’t have orzo?
If orzo isn’t available, any small pasta, like ditalini or even couscous, can be used instead, though cooking times may vary.
Conclusion
This One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warming hug in a dish. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, it’s bound to bring smiles to the dinner table. So gather your loved ones, serve it up, and enjoy the comforting experience of a home-cooked meal that feels like Sunday dinner any day of the week!