Chicken Piccata Meatballs

Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a zesty, comforting twist on the Italian-American classic. Juicy chicken meatballs are simmered in a bright lemon-butter sauce with capers and garlic, making this dish a lighter, fresh take on traditional meatballs. It’s perfect served over pasta, rice, or vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Piccata Meatballs offer all the bold, tangy flavors of classic piccata in a fun, bite-sized form. The meatballs are tender and packed with herbs, while the sauce is buttery, citrusy, and balanced with a salty brine from capers. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests—and everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

• Ground chicken
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil (for browning)

For the sauce:

• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice and zest
• Capers
• Cornstarch or flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape into small meatballs (about 1 inch in size).
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 6–8 minutes total), then transfer to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add a little more oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir in the capers. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer in the sauce for 8–10 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
7. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry and simmer until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in butter to finish, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Turkey piccata meatballs: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey.
• Low-carb: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Creamy sauce: Add a splash of cream or half-and-half to the sauce at the end.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meatballs or sauce.
• Serve it over: Pasta, mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or crusty bread.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
These meatballs can also be frozen (with sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

FAQs

What is Chicken Piccata?

Chicken Piccata is a dish traditionally made with chicken cutlets in a lemon-butter-caper sauce. This version transforms it into juicy meatballs.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, then simmer in the sauce.

Can I use ground turkey?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great substitute and works perfectly in this recipe.

What can I serve with Chicken Piccata Meatballs?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.

Can I use jarred lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Are capers necessary?

Capers are traditional and add a briny flavor, but you can omit or substitute with chopped green olives.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, cook the meatballs and sauce, store in the fridge, and reheat gently when ready to serve.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the lemony sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Piccata Meatballs are a fresh, flavorful twist on a beloved classic, combining the comfort of juicy meatballs with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and capers. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight meal or serving guests, this one-pan recipe is easy, elegant, and sure to impress. Try it once, and it may just become a new favorite.

Print