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Chicken Meatballs with Peppers and Orzo

Irresistible Chicken Meatballs with Peppers and Orzo Bliss

Enjoy the delightful Italian comfort of Chicken Meatballs with Peppers and Orzo for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken Can substitute with ground turkey or beef.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced fresh garlic recommended.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Mini Peppers Regular bell peppers can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 15 oz can Canned Tomato Sauce Homemade marinara can enhance flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Capers Can be omitted or substituted with green olives.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Can substitute with basmati rice or small pasta.
  • 1/2 cup Mascarpone Alternatives include cream cheese, ricotta, or Greek yogurt.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Skillet
  • Pot
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Form mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
  3. In the same skillet, add diced mini peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in canned tomato sauce and add capers, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  4. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Drain orzo and return to pot. Stir in mascarpone while hot for a creamy texture.
  5. To serve, place a scoop of creamy orzo on each plate, top with chicken meatballs, and spoon the tomato-pepper sauce over them. Enjoy your meal!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are safe to eat. Consider reserving pasta water for the orzo for a better texture.

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