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Rosemary Chicken Meatballs & Tomato Orzo

Rosemary Chicken Meatballs & Tomato Orzo for Cozy Nights

This Rosemary Chicken Meatballs & Tomato Orzo dish features juicy meatballs and creamy orzo, perfect for cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken Thigh Can substitute with ground turkey.
  • 1 cup Diced Bread Opt for gluten-free bread if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Shallots Use fresh for best flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is highly recommended.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Adjust liquid if using fresh tomatoes.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Swap with a dairy-free cheese for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary Reduce amount if using dried.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on personal spice tolerance.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use any neutral oil.
For the Creamy Tomato Orzo
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be a dairy-free substitute.
  • 2 cups Spinach Feel free to mix in other greens.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Essential for building a rich sauce.
  • 1/2 cup White Wine Vegetable broth works for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock Aim for low-sodium.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can be replaced with another small pasta type.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Gather all your ingredients.
  2. In a small bowl, soak the diced bread in warm water for about 5 minutes. Gently wring out the excess water.
  3. In a skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine soaked bread, ground chicken, sautéed mixture, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix gently.
  5. Form the mixture into approximately 16 meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. While the meatballs are baking, melt another tablespoon of butter in a skillet. Add remaining shallots and oil from sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and red pepper flakes.
  8. Pour in white wine, stirring for about 2 minutes. Add the orzo and chicken stock, cooking until orzo is al dente, about 8 minutes.
  9. Once the orzo is cooked, lower heat and stir in heavy cream and spinach. Mix until the greens wilt.
  10. Serve a scoop of creamy tomato orzo on each plate, topped with the meatballs. Garnish with crispy rosemary and extra parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 35IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture for tender meatballs. Stir frequently while cooking the orzo to prevent mushiness. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Check meatballs with a thermometer to ensure safety.

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