Oh, let me tell you about a dish that has quickly become one of my favorites: Baked Sage Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Orzo! 🥳 Just thinking about it makes my heart sing. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the wonderful aroma of sage and chicken filled my kitchen, wrapping me in such a warm embrace. It reminded me of cozy family dinners around the table, and honestly, what could be better than that?
These meatballs are packed with flavor, and the added creaminess of the Parmesan orzo takes it to a whole new level. It’s comforting, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! It’s a dish that definitely has that “wow” factor for dinner guests, but it’s just as delightful for a relaxing night in with your loved ones.
What’s in Baked Sage Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Orzo?
Let’s break down the delicious ingredients that make this meal sing:
Ground Chicken: The star of the show! I typically go for lean ground chicken for a healthy protein that still provides juicy meatballs.
Sage: This fragrant herb adds an earthy flavor that makes these meatballs really pop. Fresh sage is best, but dried will do in a pinch.
Garlic: You can never go wrong with garlic! It brings warmth and depth to the meatballs.
Parmesan Cheese: Oh yes, cheese! It adds that lovely umami flavor and a nice creaminess to the orzo.
Orzo: This adorable rice-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up the flavors. It makes for a delightful side dish alongside the meatballs.
Chicken Broth: For cooking the orzo! It infuses every bite with rich flavor.
Spinach: Adds a pop of green and a healthy dose of nutrients. Plus, it wilts beautifully into the orzo.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil enhances the flavors perfectly—because, let’s face it, everything tastes better with a drizzle of olive oil.
Is Baked Sage Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Orzo Good for You?
You bet! Let’s chat about what’s nutritious in this delicious meal.
Ground Chicken: This lean protein is a great alternative to beef or pork, allowing you to enjoy meatballs without feeling guilty.
Sage: Did you know this lovely herb is also packed with antioxidants? It’s been used for ages not just for flavor but for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Spinach: This leafy green is filled with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron. I sneak it into just about everything for a nutritious boost!
One thing to keep in mind: if you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and cheese. And while this dish is generally healthy, moderation is key—especially if you’re indulging in more than one serving (trust me, it’s hard to resist!).
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– Salt & pepper, to taste
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups spinach, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Additional Parmesan, for serving
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
How to Make Baked Sage Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Orzo?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let’s get that kitchen cozy!
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped sage, minced garlic, and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in size. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo, reduce heat to medium, and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
6. When the orzo is done, stir in the chopped spinach and drizzle with olive oil. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
7. Serve the meatballs on a bed of the Parmesan orzo, topped with extra Parmesan if you like.
Perfect Pairings & Sneaky Tips!
Let’s chat about how to take this dish to new heights!
– Feel free to add some roasted veggies alongside the meatballs or in the orzo for extra color and nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes would all complement the flavors beautifully.
– If you love herbs, toss some fresh basil or parsley on top for that lovely pop of freshness.
– This is an excellent dish for meal prepping! Just store the meatballs and orzo separately to keep everything fresh throughout the week.
Now that you know how to create this scrumptious Baked Sage Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan Orzo, I can’t wait for you all to try it! Trust me, this might just become a staple in your home too. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
