These Baked Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo are a comforting and flavorful dinner option. Tender chicken meatballs, packed with fresh herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, are baked to golden perfection and served over a creamy tomato orzo with spinach and parmesan. This one-pan dish is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals or festive gatherings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 2 oz fresh Italian bread, diced
• ½ cup warm water
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 shallot, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp granulated garlic
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 ½ lbs ground chicken thigh
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in olive oil)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
• ¼ tsp kosher salt

For the Tomato Orzo:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato olive oil (from the jar)
• 1 sprig rosemary
• 1 shallot, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 ¼ cups chicken stock
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 oz fresh spinach (about 2 cups)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

Directions

For the Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Place diced bread in a large bowl and pour warm water over it. Soak for 5 minutes.
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in granulated garlic and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat.
4. In the bowl with soaked bread, add ground chicken, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, rosemary, parsley, salt, and shallot mixture. Mix until combined.
5. Form mixture into 16 meatballs (about 2 oz each) and place on the sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.

For the Tomato Orzo:

1. Wipe out the skillet and heat butter and sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat. Add rosemary sprig and crisp on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Add shallots, garlic, and a pinch of salt to the butter. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and red pepper flakes.
3. Add white wine and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in orzo, followed by chicken stock. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often, for 8 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream, spinach, and parmesan. Simmer until spinach wilts and cheese melts. Adjust seasoning if needed.

To Serve:

• Serve the baked chicken meatballs over the tomato orzo. Garnish with crispy rosemary, additional parmesan, and chopped parsley.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 39 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

The Magic of Herb-Infused Chicken Meatballs

The chicken meatballs in this recipe are a standout feature, thanks to their incredible flavor and texture. Key elements make these meatballs truly special:

1. Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and parsley provide an aromatic, earthy undertone that complements the chicken beautifully.
2. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy sweetness and a burst of umami that enhances the overall flavor profile.
3. Tender Texture: The use of soaked bread creates a moist and tender meatball that’s far from dry or tough.

Baking the meatballs instead of frying them is not only healthier but also allows the flavors to develop fully while maintaining a golden, crispy exterior.

The Creamy Comfort of Tomato Orzo

Tomato orzo is the perfect base for the herbaceous chicken meatballs. The creamy, tomato-infused pasta is rich yet balanced, with layers of flavor that come from thoughtful ingredients:

1. Tomato Paste: Provides a concentrated tomato flavor that is both tangy and sweet.
2. White Wine: Adds depth and a subtle acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce.
3. Parmesan and Cream: Create a velvety texture and rich taste, tying the dish together beautifully.
4. Spinach: Adds freshness and a boost of nutrients, making the dish feel lighter while still being indulgent.

Cooking the orzo directly in chicken stock enhances its flavor and creates a creamy consistency without the need for excessive cream or cheese.

Why This Dish is a One-Pan Wonder

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s a true one-pan meal. From sautéing the aromatics to simmering the orzo and finishing the dish with wilted spinach, everything comes together in a single skillet. This approach not only enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together but also makes cleanup a breeze.

For busy weeknights or when you’re hosting guests, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort and mess.

Aromatic Rosemary: The Star Ingredient

Rosemary plays a central role in this recipe, providing a distinctive pine-like aroma and flavor that ties the dish together. Used both in the meatballs and the orzo, rosemary adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Crisping the rosemary sprigs in butter before cooking the orzo infuses the dish with its essence and creates a beautiful, crispy garnish that adds both texture and visual appeal.

Customizing Your Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo

This recipe is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Swap the Protein: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, pork, or beef for a different flavor profile.
2. Vegetarian Option: Replace the meatballs with roasted vegetables or plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.
3. Add More Veggies: Include roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
4. Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
5. Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

These variations make the dish suitable for a wide range of palates and preferences.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

The combination of tender meatballs and creamy orzo makes this dish versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions:

1. Weeknight Dinner: Quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Family Gathering: Its comforting flavors and elegant presentation make it a hit for family dinners.
3. Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
4. Festive Meals: Garnish with extra Parmesan and crispy rosemary for a dish that looks and tastes festive.

Its universal appeal ensures it’s always well-received, no matter the setting.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

Despite its indulgent flavor, this recipe offers several nutritional benefits:

• High-Protein Meal: With chicken meatballs and Parmesan cheese, this dish is rich in protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety.
• Packed with Vegetables: Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Wholesome Carbohydrates: Orzo provides energy while being lighter than traditional pasta.
• Balanced Fats: The recipe uses healthy fats from olive oil and moderate amounts of butter and cream for flavor.

This balance makes the dish satisfying while still being nourishing and wholesome.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

1. Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can result in dense meatballs. Combine the ingredients just until incorporated.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and parsley deliver a more vibrant flavor than dried alternatives.
3. Monitor the Orzo: Stir frequently while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the orzo and meatballs to ensure the flavors are balanced. Add salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further with complementary sides and garnishes:

• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Salad: Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Freeze the meatballs separately for up to three months. Reheat in the oven and serve fresh with orzo.

Proper storage and reheating ensure the dish retains its flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Baked Rosemary Chicken Meatballs with Tomato Orzo is a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that satisfies on every level. The tender, herb-infused meatballs, paired with creamy tomato orzo and fresh spinach, create a well-balanced meal that’s both hearty and elegant. Its one-pan preparation and minimal cleanup make it a practical choice for busy weeknights, while its rich flavors and stunning presentation make it a standout for special occasions.

Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today, and experience the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication in every bite!