Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. These savory meatballs are packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of ground chicken, capers, and zesty lemon. Perfect for any occasion, they make a fantastic appetizer or main dish that will impress your family and friends. The creamy lemon sauce adds a rich touch that complements the meatballs beautifully, making them truly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up Chicken Piccata Meatballs in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The blend of lemon zest, capers, and Parmigiano Reggiano creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer, over pasta, or in sandwiches for a delicious meal any time.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using ground chicken keeps these meatballs lower in fat while remaining hearty and satisfying.
- Crowd Pleaser: These meatballs are sure to impress guests at gatherings with their unique taste and presentation.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Medium bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Straight sided skillet
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for broiling the meatballs evenly without sticking.
- Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients together while allowing enough space to combine everything thoroughly.
- Rubber spatula: Helps mix the ingredients well without damaging them; great for folding delicate mixtures like meatball dough.
- Straight sided skillet: Ideal for making the sauce and allows easy stirring without spilling.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1/2 cup torn, soft white bread, crust removed
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped capers
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, from 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- 1 pound ground chicken
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, from 1/2 a lemon
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, to serve
Chef’s note: If using salt-packed capers, rinse them thoroughly before using. If using brined capers, drain and rinse.
How to Make Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the broiler to high and position a rack in the top third of the oven. Drizzle a straight-sided baking sheet with 2 teaspoons of oil and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the torn white bread, milk, parmesan cheese, and egg.
2. Use a rubber spatula or your fingers to stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes.
4. Add shallot, capers, lemon zest, salt, and parsley; stir until combined.
5. Add ground chicken and gently mix until just combined.
6. Using damp hands, form mixture into 1½ tablespoon-sized balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
Broil the meatballs until golden brown for about 7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium straight-sided skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil; heat until it moves freely (about 30 seconds).
2. Add shallots and salt; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Sprinkle in flour; whisk until smooth.
4. While whisking continuously, add chicken broth and lemon juice; stir until smooth.
5. Bring to simmer; reduce heat to maintain gentle simmer.
6. Stir in capers; let sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Meatballs with Sauce
Add broiled meatballs to the sauce:
1. Stir gently to coat them in sauce.
2. Cover with lid; let simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Chicken Piccata Meatballs topped with more freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano if desired!
How to Serve Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Serving Chicken Piccata Meatballs can be a delightful experience. These flavorful meatballs pair well with a variety of dishes and can be served in many creative ways.
On Pasta
- Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal. A light lemon-infused sauce complements the flavors beautifully.
In a Sub Sandwich
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with extra Parmigiano Reggiano cheese for a delicious sandwich.
With Salad
- Serve the meatballs on a bed of arugula or mixed greens. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh and healthy option.
As an Appetizer
- Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve them with a side of dipping sauce for an enjoyable appetizer at parties.
Over Rice
- Pair the chicken piccata meatballs with fluffy rice or quinoa. The sauce will soak into the grains, enhancing their flavor.
With Garlic Bread
- Serve the meatballs alongside warm garlic bread. This combination is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
How to Perfect Chicken Piccata Meatballs
To ensure your Chicken Piccata Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
-
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
-
Don’t overmix: Mix gently when combining the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
-
Chill before cooking: Allowing formed meatballs to chill for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
-
Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the broiler; overcooking can lead to dry meatballs.
-
Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming meatballs, adjusting salt or herbs as needed for optimal flavor.
-
Serve immediately: Enjoy your Chicken Piccata Meatballs right after cooking for the best texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Piccata Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance to the dish.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.
-
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing create a refreshing contrast to rich meatballs.
-
Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fragrant rice pilaf with lemon zest pairs wonderfully, echoing the citrus notes in the dish.
-
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant green color that complements the meal.
-
Pasta Primavera: A mix of colorful vegetables tossed in olive oil makes for a light yet satisfying side dish.
-
Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta brings freshness to your meal.
-
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs provides a delightful base that absorbs the flavor of the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Piccata Meatballs, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using dry bread: Ensure your bread is fresh and soft. Stale bread won’t absorb the milk properly, leading to dry meatballs.
- Overmixing the meat: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so handle them gently.
- Skipping the broiling step: Broiling gives your meatballs a delicious golden crust. Don’t skip this for a better texture and flavor!
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming meatballs. Each chicken variety can differ in flavor, so adjust salt and spices accordingly.
- Ignoring the simmer time: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce long enough. This step adds flavor and keeps them moist.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Piccata Meatballs in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Add to a skillet with a splash of broth or sauce over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chicken Piccata Meatballs?
Chicken Piccata Meatballs are flavorful bite-sized meatballs made from ground chicken, seasoned with lemon, capers, and herbs, served in a savory sauce.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
You can substitute ground turkey for chicken in this recipe. It will still taste great with the same seasonings!
How do I make gluten-free Chicken Piccata Meatballs?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and flour alternatives such as almond flour or coconut flour.
What should I serve with Chicken Piccata Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even on their own as an appetizer. You can also serve them with steamed vegetables for a healthy meal.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Piccata Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile! You can enjoy them as part of a cozy family meal or as an elegant dish for entertaining guests. Feel free to customize the flavors by adding different herbs or spices that you love!
Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (12 meatballs) 1x
Description
Chicken Piccata Meatballs offer a fresh twist on the traditional Italian dish, combining ground chicken with zesty lemon and briny capers for a delightful flavor experience. These tender meatballs are enveloped in a creamy lemon sauce that elevates them to new heights of deliciousness, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, these meatballs can be served in various ways—over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizing bite at parties. With their impressive taste and presentation, Chicken Piccata Meatballs will undoubtedly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup torn, soft white bread, crust removed
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped capers
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, from 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, from 1/2 a lemon
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, to serve
Instructions
- Preheat broiler to high and drizzle a baking sheet with oil.
- In a bowl, mix torn bread, milk, cheese, and egg until combined. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Stir in shallots, capers, lemon zest, salt, parsley, and ground chicken until just mixed. Form into 1½ tablespoon balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Broil meatballs for about 7 minutes until golden brown; set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté shallots in oil until fragrant. Whisk in flour and gradually add broth and lemon juice; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add meatballs to the sauce; simmer covered for another 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
