Print

Sage Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Orzo

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Sage Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Orzo is a comforting, flavorful dinner featuring herb-loaded ground chicken meatballs served over rich, creamy Parmesan orzo pasta. This cozy one-bowl meal is perfect for weeknights or special occasions, combining savory herbs, juicy meatballs, and a velvety pasta base in every bite.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken Meatballs:
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • For the Parmesan Orzo:
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 16 oz chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp shallot, minced
  • 2 tbsp sage leaves, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp parsley, minced
  • 4 oz fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line or grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, egg, melted butter, minced shallot, garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), Parmesan, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently mix in the ground chicken until just combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. In a pot, bring broth to a boil. Add orzo, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt butter and sauté minced shallot and sage for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  7. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with sautéed aromatics. Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, parsley, and fresh spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and mixture is creamy.
  8. Serve meatballs over the creamy Parmesan orzo and garnish with extra herbs and cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey as a substitute for chicken if preferred.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor and texture.
  • Orzo can be cooked in advance and reheated with added cream.
  • Adjust herbs and seasoning to taste for more customization.

Nutrition