Description
These Chicken Piccata Meatballs combine tender ground chicken with zesty lemon, garlic, and capers for a flavorful Italian-inspired dish. The meatballs are browned to perfection and simmered in a rich, buttery piccata sauce, making them perfect served over pasta, rice, or enjoyed on their own for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Piccata Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ stick (4 tablespoons) butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup capers + 2 tablespoons caper brine
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, salt, 4 cloves minced garlic, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated, then shape the mixture into small meatballs approximately 2 tablespoons each.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make Piccata Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add capers, caper brine, and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 6-7 minutes.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the piccata sauce. Simmer together for 5-6 minutes to allow the meatballs to absorb flavors and stay warm.
- Serve: Serve the chicken piccata meatballs over pasta, rice, or enjoy them on their own as a savory dish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
- Adjust lemon juice amount to taste for more or less tanginess.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked through by cutting one open to check for no pink inside.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
