Name: One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken (454 grams); ½ cup dry breadcrumbs (55 grams); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (35 grams); ¼ cup milk; 1 egg; ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons oil; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth; 1½ cups dry orzo pasta (about 278 grams); ⅔ cup cream (heavy or light cream); ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you are craving a meal that combines comfort and elegance all in one, then you have to try this One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe. It’s a marvel of simplicity and flavor where tender homemade chicken meatballs simmer in a creamy Parmesan sauce alongside perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Within just 45 minutes, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a charming dish to impress without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with layers of ingredients separated distinctly. At the bottom, there is raw light brown ground meat, mostly covering the bowl’s base. On the right side above the meat is a bright yellow egg yolk, sitting with its shiny surface. Next to it, there is a mound of fresh chopped green parsley with a rough texture. Near the parsley, there are dried herbs in a mix of green and brown tones, followed by a light tan powder near the center. To the left, there is a pile of fine beige breadcrumbs and some shredded white cheese with a soft, thin texture. Around the cheese and meat, some small piles of black pepper, salt, finely minced garlic, and white flour are arranged in scattered spots. The whole scene is well lit and clear, showing each ingredient’s color and texture clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting the dish’s comforting textures and rich flavors. From the delicately seasoned chicken meatballs to the creamy garlic Parmesan orzo, every component is straightforward but essential.

Ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.
Dry breadcrumbs: They absorb moisture and bind the meatballs without making them dense.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty depth to both meatballs and orzo sauce.
Milk and egg: Help to keep the meatballs light and moist.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the meatballs.
Italian seasoning, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper: Essential spices that build layers of savory flavor.
Olive oil: For searing the meatballs to develop a golden crust.
Garlic cloves: Infuse the orzo with aromatic warmth.
Low sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that flavors and softens the orzo.
Orzo pasta: Tiny rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture in the sauce.
Shredded Parmesan: Melts into the orzo for extra richness and savory notes.

How to Make One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Meatballs

Start by mixing ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic, onion powder, and pepper. The key here is to mix until just combined to avoid dense meatballs. Letting the mixture rest allows the breadcrumbs to soak up moisture, resulting in a tender bite.

Step 2: Shaping and Searing

Roll your mixture into small, evenly sized 1 to 1¼ inch meatballs. Heat oil in a large skillet and sear the meatballs on all sides until golden. This step locks in juices and adds satisfying texture. Once browned, place them on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Parmesan Orzo

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and quickly cook the minced garlic for about a minute to release its fragrance. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits—it’s pure flavor magic.

Step 4: Simmering Together

Add the orzo, cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Stir gently to mix everything, then nestle the meatballs on top. Cover and let everything simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite. The mixture might appear soupy initially, but will thicken as the pasta absorbs the liquid.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Always taste before serving to adjust salt or pepper as needed. This One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe shines when served warm and fresh straight from the pan.

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe

A white plate with a thin gold rim holds a dish of cooked orzo pasta that is creamy and pale yellow. On top of the pasta, there are seven golden-brown meatballs with a slightly crispy texture and sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. The meatballs are arranged mostly in the center and slightly spread out. A silver fork with an ornate handle rests on the right side of the plate, partially embedded in the pasta. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with some fresh green parsley placed in the top right corner and a blue and white striped cloth napkin next to the bottom left of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. A final sprinkle of extra Parmesan melts beautifully into the warm dish. For a hint of zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice complements the creamy sauce wonderfully without overpowering.

Side Dishes

Since this recipe is a complete meal, sides can be light and simple. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans are also excellent accompaniments to add crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy and inviting centerpiece. For individual plating, spoon the creamy orzo down first, then arrange the meatballs on top. Garnish with herbs and Parmesan shavings for a restaurant-worthy look at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken meatballs and orzo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more after sitting, making the next meal tastier. Just be sure to cool them before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze both meatballs and orzo separately or combined. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave covered in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute and will give a similar lean texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if needed and season accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and using gluten-free orzo or a similar pasta substitute, you can enjoy a gluten-free version.

Can I add vegetables to the orzo?

Definitely! Small diced vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas can be stirred in during the final cooking minutes to add color and nutrition.

How do I know when the orzo is done?

Orzo should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, known as al dente. It typically takes about 10 minutes of simmering in this recipe’s liquid mixture.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. You can also cook them fully and reheat while making the orzo for faster meal prep.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this One Pan Chicken Meatballs with Orzo Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels lovingly homemade while requiring minimal effort—perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. I hope you give it a try and discover just how much joy one pan can bring to your dinner table!