Go Back
Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Isla Marie

Chicken Piccata Meatballs

These Chicken Piccata Meatballs are tender, juicy, and simmered in a bright lemon-butter caper sauce. A perfect balance of tangy, savory, and rich flavors, this dish is an easy yet elegant dinner option that works for both weeknights and special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko preferred
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 –3 tbsp lemon juice adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp capers drained
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Plate or tray (for resting meatballs)

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Step 2. Shape the Meatballs
  1. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1–1.5 inches). Keep them evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Step 3. Sear the Meatballs
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–6 minutes total). Remove and set aside.
Step 4. Build the Sauce
  1. In the same pan, melt butter and lightly sauté garlic if desired. Add a splash of chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the pan.
Step 5. Simmer the Sauce
  1. Add remaining broth, lemon juice, and capers. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes to slightly reduce.
Step 6. Cook Meatballs in Sauce
  1. Return meatballs to the pan. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 7. Finish and Serve
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.

Video

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender
  • Use slightly fatty ground chicken (thigh preferred) for best results
  • Adjust lemon juice based on your taste preference
  • Browning the meatballs adds essential flavor to the sauce
  • Simmer gently to avoid drying out the meatballs