Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Looking for a delicious, high-protein meal that's packed with flavor and easy to prepare? Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo is the perfect dish for any occasion. This hearty and comforting meal blends juicy, herbed chicken meatballs with a rich tomato orzo, creating a balanced dish that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Why Choose Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo?

• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with lean chicken, fresh rosemary, and antioxidant-rich tomatoes, this dish is a wholesome choice.

• High in Protein: Chicken meatballs provide a great source of protein, making this meal ideal for muscle growth and overall health.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps make this an accessible meal for all skill levels.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and can be reheated, making it a great option for batch cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tomato Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

2. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs.

3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.

5. Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Tomato Orzo

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).

3. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

5. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and absorbs most of the liquid.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, gently mixing them into the tomato orzo.

2. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition Breakdown

This dish is not only delicious but also offers a great nutritional profile:

• Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fats: 12g

• Fiber: 5g

Tips for the Best Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and basil enhance the flavor significantly.

• Don't Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can make them dense and tough.

• Let the Orzo Absorb Flavor: Allow the pasta to cook in the tomato broth for the best taste.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

• Garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.

• A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Conclusion

Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion. With its rich flavors, high protein content, and balanced ingredients, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Try this recipe today and experience a delicious combination of herbs, protein, and savory tomato goodness!