Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Name: Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons capers, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Piccata Meatballs bring together the classic flavors of traditional Chicken Piccata in a fun, bite-sized form. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of tangy lemon, savory capers, and rich parmesan cheese. Follow this simple recipe to create a meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons capers, chopped

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of chopped capers, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Form and Cook the Meatballs:

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to combine all the flavors.

Finish Cooking the Meatballs:

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the meatballs with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with the sauce spooned over the top.

Serving Tips:

Pair with Pasta:

Serve the Chicken Piccata Meatballs over a bed of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta. The sauce from the meatballs will coat the pasta beautifully, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

Serve with Rice:

For a gluten-free option, serve the meatballs over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. The grains will soak up the flavorful sauce, enhancing every bite.

Accompany with Vegetables:

Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a great side dish. The freshness of the vegetables complements the rich flavors of the meatballs and sauce.

Add a Salad:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatballs. Consider a mix of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette.

Serve with Crusty Bread:

A side of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. It’s a great way to ensure none of the flavorful liquid goes to waste.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration:

Store leftover Chicken Piccata Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.

Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Avoid Overcooking:

When reheating, be careful not to overcook the meatballs, as this can make them dry. Gentle reheating will help maintain their tenderness.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Meatballs

FAQs:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe. Ground turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative. The cooking times and methods will remain the same.

What can I use instead of capers if I don’t have any on hand?

If you don’t have capers, you can use green olives or chopped pickles as a substitute. Both will provide a similar tangy and salty flavor. Alternatively, you can omit them if you prefer a milder taste.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Ensure that the chicken broth you use is also gluten-free, as some broths may contain gluten.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Mix and form the meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Conclusion:

Chicken Piccata Meatballs offer a delicious, easy-to-make twist on a classic Italian dish, perfect for any occasion. With their tangy lemon-butter sauce and savory flavors, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.