Name: Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Maple Leaf Prime Raised Without Antibiotics ground chicken (454 grams); ½ cup dry breadcrumbs (55 grams); ½ cup Parmesan cheese (35 grams); ¼ cup milk; 1 egg; ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons oil (for pan frying); ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon red chili flakes; 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth; 1½ cups dry orzo pasta (about 270 grams); ⅔ cup cream (18%-35% fat); ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 cup chopped fresh spinach

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 27 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting, flavor-packed dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken meatballs with creamy, herb-infused orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, creating a medley of Italian-inspired flavors that will brighten any weeknight dinner. Every bite sings with the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes that make it a family favorite worth repeating again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds several ingredients separated in layers: at the top left, there is a single raw egg with a bright yellow yolk and clear white; next to it, a small pool of light milk surrounds pink ground meat in the center. To the right, there is a pile of finely chopped fresh green herbs, and next to it, a heap of mixed dried herbs in dark green and brown shades. Below these, layers include light beige breadcrumbs, off-white grated cheese with a fluffy texture, and tiny granules of light brown seasoning. The ingredients are arranged clearly and distinctly, ready to be mixed. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh, and thoughtfully chosen ingredients make all the difference in this recipe. Each component brings something vital to the table, whether it’s adding a burst of color, a depth of flavor, or a luscious creamy texture that ties everything together beautifully.

Ground Chicken: The lean base for our tender and flavorful meatballs, perfect for a lighter protein option.
Dry Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the meatballs and keeping them soft and moist.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor in both the meatballs and the orzo for that authentic Italian taste.
Milk: Keeps the meatballs juicy and tender as they cook.
Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatballs together without falling apart.
Fresh Parsley: Improves freshness and adds a gentle herbaceous note (optional but highly recommended!).
Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the meatballs with classic Italian flair.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Boost the savory profile with aromatic intensity.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a sweet-tart punch that gives the orzo its vibrant color and signature taste.
Tomato Paste: Enhances the sauce with concentrated tomato goodness.
Chicken Broth: Creates the cooking liquid for the orzo, layering in warmth and depth.
Orzo Pasta: The star grain soaking up all the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Heavy Cream: Brings luscious richness that turns the orzo into a silky, comforting base.
Fresh Spinach: A pop of green that brightens the dish with mild earthiness and nutrition.
Olive Oil: For searing the meatballs and building flavor right from the start.
Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Oregano, and Red Chili Flakes: These seasonings round out the dish with balanced heat and herbal depth.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatballs

Begin by combining ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic, onion powder, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Letting the mixture rest for 10 to 20 minutes helps the breadcrumbs absorb the moisture perfectly, making your meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 2: Form and Sear the Meatballs

Roll the chicken mixture into 1 to 1¼-inch balls, the ideal size for even cooking and tenderness. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the meatballs on all sides until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This caramelization not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture. Once browned, move them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Start the Creamy Tuscan Orzo

Using the same skillet, sauté sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, minced garlic, salt, oregano, black pepper, and red chili flakes for 1 to 2 minutes until the aromas fill your kitchen. This step wakes up all those fragrant, vibrant flavors that define the Tuscan style.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo in Broth

Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the pan; this adds savory richness to your sauce. Bring it to a gentle boil before stirring in the orzo, cream, Parmesan, and more seasoning. Arrange the meatballs on top and cover the skillet, allowing everything to simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the orzo is perfectly al dente and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Spinach

Just before serving, stir in freshly chopped spinach, letting it wilt into the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust your seasonings if needed. This quick addition adds a fresh, vibrant contrast that compliments the hearty meatballs and creamy orzo perfectly.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy bed of pale yellow orzo pasta mixed with small green spinach leaves and bits of sun-dried tomatoes, topped with five golden-brown round meatballs sprinkled with grated white cheese. A silver fork is resting on the right side inside the bowl. Around the bowl, there are small glass bowls containing grated white cheese and chopped green herbs, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing elevates a dish like thoughtful garnishes. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy finish. A few torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley will bring a bright, herbal aroma that’s just begging to be enjoyed. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can also add a silky sheen and boost the flavors.

Side Dishes

This Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple side salads that add lightness and variety. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad works beautifully. Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia is excellent for soaking up any extra creamy sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner presentation, serve the meatballs nestled on a bed of orzo in shallow bowls, topped with vibrant greens and cheese. You can also portion individual servings into mini casserole dishes for a cozy, rustic feel. For gatherings, platter presentations with garnish piles let guests help themselves and add a communal, family-style vibe to the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish keeps beautifully for up to 3 days thanks to its hearty ingredients. The flavors even deepen overnight, making for a delightful next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatballs separately or combined with the orzo sauce. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. Frozen properly, they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring the leftovers back to life, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the texture feels too thick. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even warmth without drying out the meatballs.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground pork make excellent substitutes and will still yield tender and flavorful meatballs. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed based on the meat’s fat content.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If sun-dried tomatoes are not available, you can use diced fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a slightly different but still tasty twist on the creamy orzo base.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?

This Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe has a mild warmth thanks to a pinch of red chili flakes, which you can easily omit or increase depending on your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free orzo or a small pasta alternative like rice or quinoa to keep the dish gluten-free and just as delightful.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the meatballs?

Reheating gently on the stovetop with a bit of extra liquid helps keep the meatballs moist. Avoid high heat in the microwave, and cover your dish to trap steam, preserving tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Orzo Recipe is one of those meals you’ll want to make again and again – it’s satisfying, comforting, and packed with flavor that feels both homemade and special. Whether feeding a busy family or impressing close friends, this dish delivers on every level. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the cozy, delicious Italian-inspired goodness that everyone will love!