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One Pan Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo

This comforting dish brings together flavorful chicken meatballs and creamy orzo in a delightful one-pan meal, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 671 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken meatballs

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp oil for pan For frying the meatballs

Creamy Tuscan orzo

  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/8 tsp red chili flakes
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo
  • 2/3 cup cream Heavy or light cream can be used
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 cup chopped spinach Fresh spinach is recommended

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the chicken meatballs, except the frying oil. Gently stir the mixture until evenly combined, allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in the milk for about 10 to 20 minutes.
  • Once ready, form small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Cooking Meatballs

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, searing them until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Orzo

  • In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, minced garlic, salt, oregano, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a low boil. Stir in the dry orzo, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Gently place the browned meatballs on top of the orzo mixture, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the chicken is cooked through.
  • Stir in the chopped spinach just before serving.

Notes

Serve with a side salad or crusty bread. Ensure to sear the meatballs in batches for best results.
Keyword comfort food, One Pan Meal, Tuscan Chicken Meatballs, weeknight dinner