These Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Tender chicken meatballs are simmered in a tangy, buttery lemon-caper sauce, making them perfect to serve with pasta, rice, or a simple salad.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken 🍗
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 🌾
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 egg 🥚
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🌿
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️ (for frying)
For the Piccata Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter 🧈
- 1 cup chicken broth 🍗
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained 🌿
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 🍋
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
📝 Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
- Combine the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the meatballs:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
2. Make the Piccata Sauce:
- Melt the butter:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the lemon juice and broth:
- Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer the sauce:
- Add the capers and lemon zest to the sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
3. Combine and Finish:
- Add the meatballs to the sauce:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the meatballs before serving.
4. Serve:
- Serve the meatballs:
- Serve these Chicken Piccata Meatballs over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Drizzle the lemon-caper sauce over the top for extra flavor.
🍽️ Tips:
- For extra richness: Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a creamier texture.
- Side dish ideas: Serve with mashed potatoes or a light green salad for a complete meal.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
🔥 Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per serving
These Chicken Piccata Meatballs bring a fresh and zesty flavor to your table, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion! 🍋🌿🍗