If you’re looking for a delightful dish that bursts with fresh flavors and cozy comfort, you’ve got to try this Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Lemon Orzo Recipe. Juicy chicken meatballs studded with sweet sundried tomatoes float atop a creamy, herb-infused orzo, all brightened by a zesty lemon sauce that ties everything together. It’s an absolute winner for dinner any day of the week, effortlessly combining simple ingredients into a vibrant meal that feels special without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with layers of light pink raw meat, topped with finely chopped green herbs, small pieces of red sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkling of beige breadcrumbs. A woman's hand holds a white spatula, gently mixing the ingredients inside the bowl. Nearby, a white bowl with blue rim holds minced garlic, and a white egg holder contains brown eggs. Bright sunlight casts soft shadows over the scene, highlighting the textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients here are straightforward but make such a phenomenal difference in flavor, texture, and color. From the bright herbs to the creamy orzo pasta, each element plays a key role in building this dish’s wonderful character.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides richness and a smooth mouthfeel throughout.
Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle zing and depth to the lemon sauce.
Fresh dill: Offers a fragrant herbal aroma that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Garlic cloves: Infuses savory warmth into both meatballs and orzo.
Kosher salt and ground pepper: Season evenly to enhance all other flavors.
Ground chicken: The lean base for tender, moist meatballs.
Sundried tomatoes: Packed with umami and color, perfectly balancing the meatballs.
Fresh parsley: Adds a bright herby note and lively green color.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Deepen the savory profile of the meatballs.
Olive oil (additional): For cooking and flavor layering.
Breadcrumbs: Bind the meatballs and give them gentle texture.
Egg: Holds the meatball mixture together flawlessly.
Lemon zest: Imparts aromatic citrus notes that enhance the lemon sauce.
Chopped fresh spinach: Brings earthiness and nutrients, cooked down until perfectly wilted.
Fresh minced mint and dill: Complement the lemon and chicken with bright green freshness.
Chicken stock paste: Enriches the orzo base with savory depth.
Dry orzo pasta: The tender, creamy grain that ties the dish together.
Fresh herbs for garnish: Parsley, dill, and mint make your dish look as lovely as it tastes.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Lemon Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Lemon Sauce

Start by whisking together the fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced dill, pressed garlic, salt, and pepper. This simple lemon sauce is where citrus brightness meets herbal fragrance, setting the perfect stage to drizzle over the robust meatballs and creamy orzo at the end.

Step 2: Mixing and Forming the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped sundried tomatoes, fresh parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, pressed garlic, and lemon zest. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Use a spoon or your hands to scoop out generous tablespoon-sized portions, shaping them into round meatballs. You should get about 22 to 26 meatballs. Set them aside on a plate for the next step.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach and Build the Orzo Base

Heat the large oven-safe skillet or braiser over medium-low heat. Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook until it’s completely wilted and any moisture evaporated. Set the spinach aside. In the same skillet, warm olive oil, then gently cook minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in the wilted spinach, fresh mint, fresh dill, salt, and pepper, stirring until the herbs are just wilted and the mixture is aromatic and colorful.

Step 4: Combine Orzo and Stock

Add the chicken stock paste to the skillet and stir in the hot water, combining well to form a flavorful cooking liquid. Pour in the dry orzo pasta, stirring gently to combine everything. The orzo will cook in the oven, soaking up the broth and herbs for a creamy texture.

Step 5: Bake Meatballs and Orzo Together

Place the prepared meatballs gently atop and tucked within the orzo mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or tightly with tin foil and bake in a 400°F oven for 25 to 28 minutes. Remove the lid or foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to slightly brown as the meatballs finish cooking through.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Sauce and Fresh Garnishes

Once baked, drizzle the vibrant lemon sauce over the meatballs and orzo right before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, mint, and dill for a beautiful pop of green and a fresh herbal finish that makes every bite sing.

How to Serve Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Lemon Orzo Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs are the star garnish here — sprigs of parsley, mint, and dill brighten the plate visually and add fresh bursts of flavor. A few additional lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add extra citrus zing if they like.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. Light, roasted asparagus or simple garlic green beans make excellent companions without overwhelming the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the meatballs and orzo family-style in the skillet, straight from the oven for that comforting feel. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of the lemon sauce artfully over the top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant presentation that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover meatballs and orzo completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days — perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs separately or combined with orzo in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the orzo creamy. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the tender meatballs.

FAQs

Can I use beef or turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs?

Absolutely! While this Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Lemon Orzo Recipe is crafted with chicken for its light texture, ground beef or turkey would also work well, bringing their own unique richness and flavor.

Do I have to use oil-packed sundried tomatoes?

Oil-packed sundried tomatoes provide extra flavor and tenderness, but if you only have dry ones, rehydrate them in warm water and drain thoroughly before chopping and adding. This helps maintain the right texture in the meatballs.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and select gluten-free orzo or a similar small pasta alternative such as rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version without compromising taste.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written since it uses olive oil instead of butter and no cheese, making it a great option for those avoiding dairy without any modifications.

Can I make the meatballs and orzo separately?

Of course! You can pan-fry or bake the meatballs separately and cook the orzo on the stovetop. Just toss everything together with the lemon sauce and fresh herbs before serving to enjoy the same incredible flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Sundried Tomato Chicken Meatballs with Herbed Lemon Orzo Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that I find myself making again and again. It’s fresh, flavorful, and comforting all at once—perfect for family dinners or impressing friends without fuss. I really hope you’ll give it a go and enjoy it as much as I do.