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Maple Dijon Make-Ahead Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Roasted Chickpeas, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

High Protein

Maple Dijon Make-Ahead Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Roasted Chickpeas

Tangy mustard balanced with just enough maple. 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
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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
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry
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Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Combine turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, half 2 tbsp Dijon mustard and 1 tbsp pure maple syrup, 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 spoonful of the reserved maple-Dijon sauce 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.

560calories44gprotein10gfiber