Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni (Orzo)

Indulge in the savory goodness of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni (Orzo) – a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken meatballs with flavorful orzo pasta in a creamy tomato sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of chicken meatballs, creamy tomato sauce, and orzo pasta creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
2. Quick prep time: This recipe is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of these meatballs and enjoy them throughout the week for quick and convenient meals.

Ingredient Notes:

• Minced (ground) chicken: Provides a lean protein base for the meatballs.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the meatballs together.
• Freshly grated parmesan: Infuses a rich and savory flavor into the meatballs.
• Risoni (orzo): A small pasta that pairs perfectly with the creamy tomato sauce.
• Fresh baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix minced chicken, panko breadcrumbs, diced onion, garlic, egg, parmesan, milk, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs and brown them in a pan with olive oil.
3. In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic, then add tomatoes, vinegar, tomato paste, chicken stock, cream, oregano, chili flakes, pepper, water, and orzo.
4. Simmer until the orzo is cooked, then stir in spinach and parmesan.
5. Serve the meatballs over the creamy orzo and sprinkle with extra parmesan and chili flakes.

Helpful Tips:

• For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of chicken.
• Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Season the meatball mixture generously with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
2. To prevent the orzo from sticking, stir occasionally while cooking.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
   Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the chicken for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I freeze the meatballs?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

Conclusion:

Experience the deliciousness of Marry Me Chicken Meatballs with Risoni (Orzo) and impress your family and friends with this comforting and flavorful dish. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!

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