Zesty Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the zesty flavors of lemon and capers with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels elegant enough for a special occasion. With a tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 stick butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup capers + 2 tbsp caper brine
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, salt, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and lemon zest. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Meatballs
   Form the chicken mixture into meatballs, using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per meatball. You should have approximately 16 meatballs.
3. Cook the Meatballs
   Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs. Cook them for about 6 minutes, turning them every few minutes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Once cooked through, remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
4. Make the Piccata Sauce
   In the same pan, add the butter and the remaining 1 clove of minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the butter has melted. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
5. Finish the Sauce
   Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the capers, caper brine, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 6-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Combine and Serve
   Return the meatballs to the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the tangy flavors of the sauce. Serve hot, with the sauce drizzled generously over the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

These Zesty Chicken Piccata Meatballs are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Over a bed of pasta for a comforting meal.
• Paired with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: Approx. 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

These meatballs are a delicious, zesty take on a classic, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the bright flavors and tender texture that make this dish a standout!