Introduction
Welcome to a warm and hearty meal that’s sure to impress family and friends: One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo! This delightful dish combines tender, flavorful chicken meatballs with luscious orzo pasta, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. The vibrant vegetables and rich chicken broth come together to create a dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is both simple and satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until combined, then form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook them until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté the vegetables until they are softened, approximately 5 minutes, and your kitchen is filled with a delicious aroma.
- Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, and the undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Carefully return the meatballs to the pan and cover. Let everything cook together for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, soaking up all the delicious broth.
- Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it’s wilted and vibrant.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize your meatballs by adding your favorite herbs or a hint of spice if you like them with a kick.
- If you have leftovers, this dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- For added flavor, try using homemade breadcrumbs or season them with a bit of garlic powder before mixing.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes a straightforward sautéing technique to achieve beautifully cooked meatballs and vibrant vegetables, all in one pan. The key to perfect meatballs is to not overcrowd the pan; give them space to brown evenly. Using a simmer technique for the orzo allows it to absorb the delicious flavors from the chicken broth and tomatoes, creating a dish that is rich and comforting. Stirring in the spinach just at the end helps retain its vibrant color and essential nutrients.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will offer a similar texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is complete on its own, but if you’re looking to add sides, a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread would complement it beautifully.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and even cook the dish a day ahead. Just reheat when ready to serve. You may need to add a little extra broth when reheating to keep it moist.
Conclusion
This One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo recipe is a family-friendly, simple, and flavorful dish that will surely become a favorite in your household. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you still want to savor a hearty meal. Enjoy every comforting bite! Happy cooking!