Description

Summer Squash Orzo Skillet with Chicken Meatballs is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with savory chicken meatballs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal is both healthy and satisfying, featuring zucchini, orzo, and vibrant lemon zest that together create a crowd-pleasing comfort food experience.

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, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, italian seasoning, egg, sea salt, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Form the mixture into 1.5-tablespoon meatballs and set aside.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the meatballs to the skillet and brown on two sides. Remove them from the skillet, they will finish cooking later.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion with ¼ teaspoon of salt for 2-3 minutes over medium heat. Add the zucchini and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another minute.
Stir in the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. Then add lemon zest, chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and the remaining salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Return the meatballs to the skillet and cover, simmering for 7-10 minutes until orzo is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Once everything is cooked, remove from heat, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and serve warm.

Notes

Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 115mg