One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than this One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo. This dish combines tender chicken meatballs with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all simmered together in a rich marinara sauce. It’s a complete meal that comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo is not just delicious; it’s incredibly convenient. You get the savory goodness of homemade meatballs combined with the hearty texture of orzo, all in a single pot. The flavors meld beautifully, and the leftovers—if you have any—are just as good the next day. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables, making it a balanced meal the whole family will enjoy.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this scrumptious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 onion (finely chopped, the rest chopped for the sauce)
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 celery stick, finely chopped
• 2 cups passata or marinara sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth or stock
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup orzo
• Grated parmesan for serving
• Basil leaves for garnish

Essential Tools for Success

To make this One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.

One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo Cooking Guide

Follow these simple steps to create your One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, crushed garlic cloves, grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, searing them on all sides until they are golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Broth

Pour in the passata or marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the pot and stir well. Return the meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Serve the One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo in bowls, garnished with extra grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy this flavorful meal with your family!

Variations by Season

Feel free to adapt this recipe based on seasonal ingredients or preferences:

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus to the mix for a pop of color and flavor.
• Summer: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for a refreshing twist.
• Fall: Incorporate diced butternut squash for a heartier version.
• Winter: Use kale or spinach to add some green to your dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you run into any issues while making your One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo, here are some helpful tips:

• If the meatballs break apart while cooking, try chilling them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• If the orzo isn’t cooked through, cover the pot and let it simmer a bit longer, checking frequently.
• If you find the dish too salty, balance it out with a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of sugar.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips for storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months—just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
• Consider assembling the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerating them until you’re ready to cook.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my meatballs are too dry?

If your meatballs turn out dry, try adding a bit more grated cheese or a splash of milk to the mixture next time. This will help keep them moist.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with plant-based meat alternatives or use lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.

Don’t Miss These

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these favorites:

• Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Chicken Parmesan
• Vegetable Stir Fry
• Creamy Pasta Bake

Final Bite

This One Pot Chicken Meatball Orzo is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a cozy dinner for one, this dish is sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, roll those meatballs, and get ready for a delightful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Enjoy every flavorful bite!