Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground chicken (or chicken breast, minced)
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped rosemary, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Form the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
- While meatballs are baking, bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook uncooked orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in cooked orzo and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer baked meatballs into the tomato orzo mixture, gently stir to coat, and serve hot garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
- For added flavor, incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the meatball mixture or add spices like smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free orzo)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 meatballs with orzo)
- Calories: 400 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg