Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for baking
- For the Tomato Orzo:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Make the Chicken Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Drizzle the meatballs with a little olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Prepare the Tomato Orzo:
- Cook the Orzo: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast it, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add the Tomatoes & Broth: Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Orzo: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo cook in the tomato sauce for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Meatballs & Orzo: Once the meatballs are done, add them to the tomato orzo and stir gently to combine. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g