Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Summer-Squash-Orzo-Skillet-with-Chicken-Meatballs-Recipe

Summer Squash Orzo Skillet with Chicken Meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Peter
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Summer Squash Orzo Skillet with Chicken Meatballs offers a burst of flavors with juicy meatballs, fresh vegetables, and creamy orzo. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner that the whole family will enjoy!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb. ground chicken
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1.5 teaspoons italian seasoning
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ large white onion, diced
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt, separated
  • 2 medium zucchinis, halved and sliced
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup orzo
  • Zest from 2 large lemons
  • 1.25 cups chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 4 oz. burrata cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, egg, sea salt, garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until well mixed.
  2. Form meatballs about 1.5 tablespoons each and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add meatballs and brown on two sides, removing them after partially cooked.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté onion with ¼ teaspoon salt for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add zucchini and tomatoes, cooking for another minute.
  7. Stir in orzo, toasting for 1-2 minutes before adding lemon zest, broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and the remaining salt.
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, add meatballs, cover, and simmer for 7-10 minutes until orzo absorbs most liquid and is tender.
  9. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences.
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg