One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo

Published: May 13, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is ridiculously easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile combines savory meatballs with aromatic herbs that burst in your mouth
Visually, the colorful ingredients create an appealing presentation on any dinner table
This one-pan wonder is versatile enough for casual meals or special occasions

I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my friends; their impressed faces were priceless as they dove into their plates.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Tender and juicy, ground chicken is the star of our meatballs; opt for fresh over frozen for best results.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully; don’t forget to taste test!
Fresh Parsley: Vibrant green parsley adds freshness; chop it finely for maximum flavor distribution.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for seasoning; it infuses a warm aroma without the fuss of peeling cloves.
Onion Powder: Enhances depth of flavor in the meatballs; be generous but don’t overdo it.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it adds moisture and richness to the orzo.
Olive Oil: A splash helps brown those meatballs beautifully while adding healthy fats.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a little kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors; season generously but taste along the way.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep them tender.

Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter—think golf ball size! Place them on a plate as you work to keep things organized.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides—about 5 minutes total—then remove from pan.

Add Orzo and Broth: In the same skillet, add orzo and pour in chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Bring to a boil while scraping up any tasty brown bits left behind from searing.

Return Meatballs to Skillet: Gently nestle those browned beauties back into the skillet along with crushed red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and cover—simmer until orzo is tender and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).

Serve and Enjoy!: Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Dig in while it’s warm—the best way to enjoy One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo is right off the stove! savory Korean BBQ meatballs.

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or boring—and this One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo proves just that! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. flavor-packed chicken francese Whether it’s a chilly night or just an ordinary Tuesday, this dish will warm your heart (and belly) every time! classic melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf.

You Must Know

This delightful one pan chicken meatballs with orzo dish is a time-saver and flavor explosion
The combination of juicy meatballs and tender orzo creates a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up
Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken meatballs until golden, then add orzo and broth for perfect flavor integration. For more inspiration, check out this a sweet dessert pairing recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or add veggies such as spinach for extra nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For maximum flavor, let your meatballs rest after mixing – it allows the spices to meld beautifully
Ensure not to overcrowd the pan while searing for that perfect crust
Lastly, always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as flavors deepen during cooking

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my friend who proclaimed these meatballs as “life-changing” during our dinner party. His enthusiasm made cooking feel even more rewarding.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before mixing into meatballs.

What can I substitute for orzo?

You can use any small pasta like ditalini or couscous if preferred.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure you mix the ingredients thoroughly and don’t overwork the meat mixture.

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