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Creamy Chicken Meatballs and Orzo

Creamy chicken meatballs and orzo made in one skillet for an easy and cozy dinner. Tender homemade chicken meatballs are browned until golden, then simmered with creamy parmesan orzo, garlic, broth, and spinach for a rich and comforting meal. This simple one pan chicken meatballs and orzo recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and easy comfort food cravings. Ready in about 40 minutes with simple pantry ingredients and plenty of flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 tbsp parsley

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined. Avoid overmixing so the meatballs stay soft and tender.
  2. Roll the chicken mixture into small meatballs about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate or tray while preparing the skillet. Lightly oil your hands if the mixture feels sticky.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning every few minutes so they brown evenly on all sides. The meatballs do not need to be fully cooked yet. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the dry orzo pasta and cook for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring often to lightly toast the pasta.
  5. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir well. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo becomes tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Add the spinach and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until wilted.
  7. Return the chicken meatballs to the skillet and gently place them into the creamy orzo. Simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and heated through.
  8. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve warm. Add extra parmesan cheese before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Add extra broth if the orzo becomes too thick while cooking.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts smoother into the sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.