Back to recipes
Harissa Honey Make-Ahead Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Roasted Chickpeas, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

High Protein

Harissa Honey Make-Ahead Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Roasted Chickpeas

A sweet-savory North African-inspired glaze. This recipe keeps tender turkey meatballs and quick-cooking orzo bright, saucy, and satisfying, built to prep earlier and finish quickly at dinner time, with extra plant protein and texture. It is designed for dependable prep, familiar groceries, and a calm family dinner.

Meal prepKid-friendlyFreezer-friendlyMake aheadPlant protein
Prep23 min
Cook26 min
Serves4
Total49 min
Build a smart cart

Add this meal to an editable plan and review every suggested ingredient.

Preview the developer handoff

What you’ll need

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup dry whole-wheat orzo
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp mild harissa paste
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry
Add to smart cart

Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Combine turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, half 1 tbsp mild harissa paste and 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Shape into 20 meatballs.

  2. 2

    Warm olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs for 6–7 minutes, turning gently.

  3. 3

    Add orzo, broth, and remaining flavor ingredients. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring once.

  4. 4

    Fold in spinach, cover for 2 minutes, and check that the meatballs reach 165°F. Add a light drizzle of honey and chopped mint before serving.

  5. 5

    Roast or skillet-crisp the chickpeas until golden and add them during the final five minutes.

Estimated per serving

Nutrition at a glance

Estimates are provided for planning and are not medical advice.

590calories44gprotein10gfiber