Parmesan Chicken Piccata Meatballs combine the rich, savory flavors of Parmesan with the zesty, tangy notes of Piccata sauce. This dish is a delightful twist on the traditional Chicken Piccata, featuring tender meatballs infused with Italian seasoning, served in a vibrant lemon-caper sauce. Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, these meatballs offer a comforting yet sophisticated flavor that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, browning them on all sides. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the meatballs.
- After all the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the white wine or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits. Bring the liquid to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and capers, then return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Reduce the heat and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in the butter, letting it melt into the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety texture.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.
- Serve the meatballs on a platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
- Optionally, serve with a side of pasta, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.
These Parmesan Chicken Piccata Meatballs offer a comforting yet refined dish that brings together the best of Italian-inspired flavors. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs, a tangy lemon-caper sauce, and a rich buttery finish creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold and vibrant flavors.