Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic chicken piccata dish. These meatballs are tender and flavorful, paired with a zesty lemon and caper sauce that’s both tangy and savory. They’re perfect for a light dinner or served as an appetizer!
Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Piccata Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Make the meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1 to 1 1/2-inch meatballs, making about 16-18 meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches (do not overcrowd the pan) and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, turning carefully to brown all sides. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Piccata sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the lemon juice, chicken broth, capers, and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and serve:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and gently toss them in the piccata sauce to coat. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Piccata Meatballs over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables. For extra flavor, top with more Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
These meatballs are a flavorful and light take on the traditional chicken piccata dish. Enjoy the burst of zesty lemon and savory capers in every bite!