Step 1: Prepare the Rice - Begin by cooking your white rice according to package instructions. This will be the base of your dish, so it’s best to get it started first.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, beaten egg, seasoned bread crumbs, chopped parsley, dried chives, lemon zest, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs - With your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Hummus - While the meatballs are cooking, you can prepare your hummus. If you have store-bought hummus, it’s ready to go. If you’re making your own, blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish - Once the rice is cooked and the meatballs are ready, it’s time to assemble your dish. Start with a bed of rice, add the meatballs, a generous scoop of hummus, and top with chopped tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Serve your Herby Lemon Chicken Meatballs and Hummus with lemon wedges on the side for spritzing. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!