Chicken Piccata Meatballs Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic Italian-American flavors but want a creative twist, this Chicken Piccata Meatballs recipe is just what you need! 

This dish combines the zesty, tangy notes of traditional chicken piccata with the comfort of juicy, tender meatballs. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. 

Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. In this recipe, you’ll discover a foolproof method to make flavorful chicken meatballs infused with lemon, capers, and a silky, buttery sauce. 

Get ready to wow your taste buds with this easy, delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

My Personal Experience

The first time I made Chicken Piccata Meatballs, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant the dish turned out. 

The flavors of lemon and capers paired perfectly with the tender meatballs, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. 

It’s now a go-to recipe in my household whenever I’m craving something comforting yet refined.

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or skillet
• Parchment paper (if baking)
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or grater
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Piccata Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp capers, drained
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Chicken Piccata Meatballs Recipe – Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2:

Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3:

Bake: Bake the meatballs for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4:

Prepare the Sauce: While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil and butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5:

Add Liquids: Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. If using heavy cream, add it now and stir until the sauce is smooth.

Step 6:

Combine and Serve: Transfer the baked meatballs into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly ground chicken for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; it can make them dense.
• Chill the meatball mixture for 15 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized meatballs that cook evenly.
• Taste and adjust the sauce’s seasoning before serving for a perfect balance of flavors.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
2. Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
3. Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sauce for a kick.
4. Vegetarian: Swap ground chicken with plant-based ground meat.
5. Herby Twist: Add fresh dill or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken Piccata Meatballs recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. 

With its juicy meatballs and zesty sauce, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!

FAQs

What should I serve with Chicken Piccata Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also complement the dish beautifully.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the meatballs and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the Parmesan cheese in the meatballs with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free butter alternative in the sauce to make this recipe dairy-free.

How do I make the recipe gluten-free?

To make this Chicken Piccata Meatballs Recipe gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce, if desired.