Name: Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs: A Zesty Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken breast; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; Salt & pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Juice of 1 lemon + 1 tsp zest; 2 tbsp capers, drained; 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Extra parsley for garnish

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Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish. These meatballs are light and zesty, bursting with caper-lemon flavor that dances on your palate. The juicy chicken meatballs simmer in a silky lemon-caper sauce, making every bite a treat. Whether you serve them over creamy polenta or zoodles, they’re a meal-prep-friendly option that feels indulgent while keeping your diet on track. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

These Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Here are a few reasons to love them:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and capers creates a bright and tangy taste.
Healthy Option: Made with lean ground chicken, they’re lower in fat compared to traditional meatballs.
Quick Preparation: In just 35 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready, perfect for busy nights.
Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs can be made ahead and stored for easy meals throughout the week.
Versatile Pairings: They go wonderfully with various sides like zoodles or creamy polenta.
Italian Flavor: Enjoy a taste of Italy right at home with this easy Lemon Chicken Piccata recipe.

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 lb ground chicken breast
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1/2 cup chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon + 1 tsp zest
2 tbsp capers, drained
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Extra parsley for garnish

How to Make Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine all meatball ingredients in a bowl. Form into 1.5-inch balls.
Step 2: Sear meatballs in olive oil over medium heat until golden on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, melt butter. Add broth, lemon juice/zest, capers, and bring to a simmer. Add cornstarch if thicker sauce is preferred.
Step 4: Return meatballs to the pan and simmer for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked and coated in sauce.
Step 5: Serve hot over creamy polenta, zoodles, or rice. Garnish with parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

These meatballs are great for meal prep; make a batch and store them in the fridge.
They pair well with creamy polenta or zoodles, making them a versatile dish.
Adjust seasoning to taste, as everyone has different preferences for salt and pepper.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Here are a few delicious serving ideas:

Serve them over a bed of creamy polenta for a comforting meal.
Pair with zoodles for a lighter, gluten-free option.
Enjoy them with a side of lemon garlic pasta for a complete Italian feast.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

After dinner, if you have any leftovers, follow these steps:

Place the meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will last for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy meal prep solution!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs?

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure you don’t overmix the chicken. Just combine the ingredients until they are mixed, and then shape them into meatballs. A light hand will result in juicy meatballs!

Can I make Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook them the next day when you’re ready to eat. This is a great way to save time during busy weeknights!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs?

To avoid dry meatballs, make sure you don’t overcook them. Cooking them just until they reach the right internal temperature of 165°F will keep them moist and flavorful.

Variations of Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations:

Lemon Garlic Chicken Meatballs: Add more garlic for an extra punch of flavor.
Baked Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs: Bake them in the oven for a healthier option.
Gluten-Free Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try these Korean BBQ Meatballs for a different flavor profile.

Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs: A Zesty Delight - Lemon Chicken Piccata Meatballs - additional detail

For more information on healthy cooking, visit Eat Right for tips and resources.

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