Description

This Summer Squash Orzo Skillet with Chicken Meatballs is packed with flavor and simple to prepare. Enjoy tender meatballs, fresh zucchini, and creamy orzo for a delightful meal perfect for busy evenings.

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
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon 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

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, italian seasoning, egg, sea salt, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until combined. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 tablespoons each, and set them aside.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on two sides before removing them from the skillet; they will finish cooking later.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat until softened, then add the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes. Then, stir in the lemon zest, chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and remaining salt. Bring to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 7-10 minutes until the orzo is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Once cooked, remove from heat, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and serve hot.

Notes

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
This dish can easily be made ahead and reheated for quick meals.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg