Description

This Summer Squash Orzo Skillet with Chicken Meatballs combines fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and savory chicken meatballs for a delightful one-pan meal. It’s simple to prepare and delivers mouthwatering flavors that make it ideal for a quick, healthy dinner or a cozy family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb. ground chicken
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1.5 teaspoons italian seasoning
1 large egg
½ teaspoon sea salt
1 clove garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ large white onion, diced
¾ teaspoon sea salt, separated
2 medium zucchinis, halved and sliced
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1 cup orzo
Zest from 2 large lemons
1.25 cups chicken broth
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons heavy cream
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
4 oz. burrata cheese, for serving

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, egg, sea salt, minced garlic, and mix until well combined.
Shape about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture into meatballs and set aside.
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the meatballs to the skillet, browning on two sides, then remove them from the skillet to cook fully later.
In the same skillet, add the onion and cook with ¼ teaspoon of salt for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in zucchini and cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional minute.
Add the orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, then stir in lemon zest, chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, and the remaining salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low; add the meatballs back into the dish and cover.
Simmer for 7-10 minutes until the orzo is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat, top with grated parmesan, and serve immediately.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for the chicken if preferred.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste before simmering.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 115mg