Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining juicy ground chicken with the zesty flavors of capers and lemon. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these meatballs bring a burst of flavor that will impress everyone at your table. Whether served on their own, over pasta, or in a sub, they are sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Zesty: The combination of lemon juice and capers gives these meatballs a refreshing kick.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in 30 minutes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with pasta, on a sub roll, or as an appetizer; the possibilities are endless!
- Healthier Alternative: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are lower in fat compared to traditional beef meatballs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these meatballs will be a hit among family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Chicken Piccata Meatballs, gather your tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Rubber spatula
- Medium skillet
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Baking sheet: Ideal for broiling meatballs evenly for that perfect golden brown.
- Rubber spatula: Great for mixing without damaging delicate ingredients like bread.
- Medium skillet: Perfect for simmering your sauce while keeping it contained.
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
To Serve
- Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
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 olive oil and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the torn white bread, milk, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and egg.
2. Use a rubber spatula or your fingers to stir together the ingredients until evenly mixed and slightly mashed.
3. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes.
4. Add shallot, capers, lemon zest, salt, and parsley; stir well.
5. Add ground chicken and gently mix until just combined.
Using damp hands:
6. Form the mixture into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls.
7. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Broil the meatballs until golden brown (about 7 minutes) and then set aside.
Step 3: Prepare 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 chopped shallots and salt; cook while stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Sprinkle flour into the skillet; whisk until smooth.
4. While whisking continuously, add chicken broth and lemon juice until combined.
5. Bring sauce to simmer; reduce heat to maintain gentle simmer.
6. Stir in capers; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add:
7. The broiled meatballs into the sauce; stir to coat them well.
8. Cover with lid; allow to simmer for another 5 minutes.
9. Stir in remaining parsley before serving.
Serve with more freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese if desired!
How to Serve Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Chicken Piccata Meatballs can be served in a variety of delicious ways. These flavorful meatballs pair wonderfully with several sides and sauces, making them a versatile dish for any meal.
Over Pasta
- Serve the chicken piccata meatballs over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to create a hearty meal. The meatballs soak up the sauce beautifully.
In a Sub Sandwich
- Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a delicious meatball sub. This is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
With Salad
- Pair chicken piccata meatballs with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the savory flavors of the meatballs.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the meatballs on skewers or toothpicks as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. They make for an easy-to-eat finger food that guests will love.
With Rice
- Present the meatballs alongside fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will absorb any extra sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
With Garlic Bread
- Enjoy chicken piccata meatballs with slices of garlic bread for dipping into the sauce. This combination adds a crispy texture that enhances the dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Piccata Meatballs
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken piccata meatballs, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste of your chicken piccata meatballs significantly. Always opt for fresh parsley and lemon zest for maximum flavor.
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Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
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Control moisture: If your mixture feels too wet, add a bit more bread or flour. The right balance ensures that your meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
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Broil for crispness: Broiling the meatballs initially gives them a nice browning and texture before simmering them in sauce. This step adds depth to their flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Complement your chicken piccata meatballs with delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with tangy flavors.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition while adding natural sweetness.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons creates a classic pairing that is always satisfying.
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Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with lemon complements the citrus notes of chicken piccata perfectly.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the meatball’s richness.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and herbs as a light alternative to pasta.
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Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with chickpeas, cucumbers, and lemon dressing offers protein-packed goodness alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Piccata Meatballs, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using stale bread: Fresh bread helps create a better texture for the meatballs. Opt for soft, day-old bread instead of stale or hard varieties.
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine ingredients just until blended for a tender result.
- Ignoring seasoning: Chicken can be bland without enough seasoning. Be sure to add salt, lemon zest, and parsley for flavor balance.
- Skipping the broiling step: Broiling gives the meatballs a nice golden color and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for optimal results.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking too quickly may leave the inside raw while burning the outside. Maintain a gentle simmer for even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow meatballs to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Simmer gently in sauce over low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Chicken Piccata Meatballs.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute. Just ensure it is seasoned adequately.
What can I serve with Chicken Piccata Meatballs?
These meatballs pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). They should also be golden brown on the outside.
Are Chicken Piccata Meatballs gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and flour alternatives in your recipe.
Can I prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate or freeze the mixture before cooking. Just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Piccata Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. With their bright flavors and comforting textures, they are sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Piccata Meatballs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Chicken Piccata Meatballs, a fresh twist on a classic Italian dish that combines juicy ground chicken with zesty lemon and capers. These meatballs are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer for an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup torn soft white bread
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped capers
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler to high and prepare a baking sheet with olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix torn bread, milk, cheese, and egg until combined.
- Add shallot, capers, lemon zest, salt, parsley, and ground chicken; mix gently.
- Form into 1½ tablespoon-sized meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
- Broil for about 7 minutes until golden brown.
- Sauté shallots in olive oil for the sauce; add flour, broth, lemon juice, and simmer.
- Stir in meatballs; cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
