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One Pan Baked Pesto Orz

Delicious One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs

Enjoy a comforting One Pan Baked Pesto Orzo with Chicken Meatballs, a family-friendly meal that combines convenience with rich flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Meatballs
  • 1 medium Zucchini Shredded and excess moisture removed
  • 1 pound Ground chicken Or turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Use gluten-free if desired
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1/2 cup Basil pesto Use homemade or store-bought
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest Brightens flavors
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
For the Orzo
  • 8 ounces Baby bella mushrooms Feel free to swap for other kinds
  • 3 cups Low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup Milk of choice Whole or 2% recommended
  • 1 cup Uncooked orzo Consider gluten-free if needed
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Optional topping

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Oven-Safe Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by shredding the zucchini using a grater, then place it in a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, basil pesto, lemon zest, and seasonings. Mix well and form into 16 meatballs.
  3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and brown for about 6 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. In the same skillet, add baby bella mushrooms with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-8 minutes until golden brown, then add minced garlic for an additional minute.
  5. Add chicken broth, milk, basil pesto, lemon zest, and uncooked orzo to the skillet. Stir gently and return meatballs, bringing to a simmer.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and return for another 5 minutes or until melted.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure zucchini is well-drained for optimal meatball texture. Uniform meatball size contributes to even cooking.

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