Chicken Piccata Meatballs

By Ashley Jean April 21, 2023 30 mins read 104 Views

This weeknight recipe transforms chicken meatballs into a deliciously saucy version. The classic Italian piccata is bursting with zesty, bright flavors, and will transform simple chicken meatballs into something new in under 30 minutes.

Photo credits: Mariam Hamdy

Piccata is an Italian word that means "to pound". The traditional chicken piccata is made with flour-coated, thinly pounded meat slices. The sauce and flavors are the same as in a classic fish or chicken piccata. To create a chicken meatball inspired by picatta, I substitute pounded chicken for pound meat. This recipe is quick and easy, I'm sure you'll love it!

Piccata sauce makes these chicken meatballs special. The flavors of lemon, white wine and garlic are concentrated by reducing them. You only need a little butter or ghee to create a rich, velvety sauce in under 5 minutes.

These chicken meatballs, like my sheet pan-roasted meatballs with veggies, are a wonderful addition to your weekly dinner rotation. Serve with plain pasta, couscous, couscous, plain rice or bread to catch all the sauce.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken Piccata Meatballs
How to cook chicken meatballs
How to cook chicken meatballs
What to serve with chicken Piccata Meatballs
Other Easy Dinner Recipes
Chicken Piccata Meatballs recipe

Chicken Piccata Meatballs

This recipe for chicken meatballs has all the flavors and textures of the classic Italian dish. The ingredients can be found in most grocery stores.

Ground Chicken:Less dense than ground beef, the mild taste of ground chicken is perfect for absorbing all that bright garlicky flavor.
Eggs: The egg acts as glue to hold the meatballs together.
Garlic:Flavors the sauce and the meatballs.
Fresh Parsley: Adds color and freshness.
BreadcrumbsBreadcrumbs give meatballs a more consistent consistency by absorbing some liquid and adding a variety of textures. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you are avoiding gluten.
Italian seasoning - Combines basil, oregano and rosemary with thyme and marjoram. Italian seasoning is a flavorful addition to any dish.
Paprika:Sweet paprika or Smoky paprika give these meatballs mild heat. Smoky paprika will give your meatballs a stronger flavor.
Add salt and pepper to the sauce and meatballs.
Extra virgin olive oil:Any extra virgin oil of high quality will work. Nocellara is a buttery Italian variety that we sell.
Butter: Butter is butter after it has been drained of water and milk solids. You can find ghee at your local supermarket in the international or oil section. Or, you can use unsalted butter.
Lemon: A lemon piccata would not be complete without a lot of lemons! This tangy sauce uses both the zest and juice of lemons. We love citrus here. Fresh is always best!
White Wine or Chicken Broth:A white wine that is dry will give you the most vibrant, flavorful sauce. You can substitute chicken broth for wine if you do not drink it.
CapersCapers is a key component in a classic Piccata sauce. They have a salty-salinity that I enjoy. I prefer the water-packed varieties. If you are using capers that have been salt-packed, I recommend soaking them in milk or water for 20 minutes and then rinsing well.

How to cook chicken meatballs

This simple recipe can be made without planning ahead. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make the piccata sauce in minutes. How to make chicken piccata - meatballs

Seasoning the chicken: In medium mixing bowl add 1 pound ground chicken, 1 chopped egg, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1/2 cup chopped parsley, and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs. Then, add 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1/2 tablespoon paprika and a large pinch of black pepper and kosher salt (about 1/2 teaspoon). Mix in a drizzle extra virgin olive oil.
Bread meatballs. Spread 1/4 of the breadcrumbs on a large platter. The chicken mixture should be formed into small meatballs of about one heaping tablespoon. Each meatball should be coated with breadcrumbs.
Sear meatballs. Cover a large, nonstick pan in olive oil. Set it over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, place the meatballs one by one. The next step is to brown or sear every meatball. Turn and rotate the meatballs occasionally, until each side has a golden brown color, approximately 3 minutes for each side. Transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels once they have been seared all over. They'll be a little raw in the center, but they'll get cooked soon.
Prepare the piccata: Heat the pan on medium. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil and 2 teaspoons ghee (or butter). Stir until fragrant, add 3 garlic cloves minced and whisk until melted. Add the juice from 2 large lemons and 1/2 cup of white wine.
Bring the sauce to a rolling boil and finish the meatballs. Increase the heat. Once the sauce has boiled, reduce the heat and place the meatballs in the pan. Add a little sauce to the top. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Garnishing and serving: Sprinkle the zest of one lemon and two tablespoons of parsley leaves chopped. Serve the meatballs with plenty of piccata and serve them hot.

Cooking Chicken Meatballs

It's super simple to make this fail-proof recipe. Garlic, lemon and white wine are a winning combination! Here are a few tips I use to ensure that these meatballs are extra juicy and golden brown.

Because chicken is a very lean meat, it may be more fragile than beef or pork. Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Egg and breadcrumbs will do. To add extra security, you can knead it with your hands for several minutes.
Allow the meatballs to breathe when you are searing them. Brown the meatballs one at a time if you are using a small pan. You need to cook the meatballs quickly in a very hot pan to get a nice searing. If you put too many meatballs, even if they are cold or room temperature, in the pan it can drastically lower the heat and make them hard to sear.
Use a meat-thermometer to check whether the chicken has been cooked through. Place the thermometer in the middle of the largest meatball. The temperature inside should be 165degF. The meat should be no longer pink in the middle and the juices should be clear.

How to serve chicken Piccata meatballs

This recipe for chicken piccata is so substantial that it can be served as a complete meal. A pool of piccata on your plate is a wasted opportunity. Serve these meatballs with plenty of sauce over plain basmati rice, couscous or pasta.

What drink should I have with chicken meatballs? This question is so interesting. This recipe is not only perfect for a weeknight but also for all-year dinner parties. Start the party with Italian Mulled Wine when it is cold. Start with Aperol in hotter months.

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Chicken Piccata Meatballs

A delicious and quick weeknight dinner, chicken meatballs with piccata are sure to please the whole family.

Intro Course

Cuisine Italian

Diet Low Lactose

Prep time ten seconds

Cook Time ten minute

Total time twenty minutes

Servings

Calories 314 Kcal

Author Suzy Kardsheh

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken
1 egg
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
5 garlic cloves (divided)
3/4 bunch parsley, leaves chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (divided)
Black pepper and Kosher Salt
Extra virgin olive oil (about 1/2 cup)
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
2 large lemons, 1 zested, both juiced
half cup dry wine or chicken broth
1/4 cup drained

Instructions

Season the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the egg, the parsley, the paprika and the Italian seasoning. Add the 2 garlic cloves minced. Add a generous pinch of black pepper and kosher sea salt (about 1/2 teaspoon of each) along with a drizzle olive oil. Mix well.
Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs on a large platter. Place the meatballs onto the plate.
Form meatballs by forming the chicken mixture into small, round balls (about one heaping tablespoon per ball). Roll the meatballs in breadcrumbs.
Add enough olive oil (about 3 tablespoons) to a large, nonstick pan over medium heat. As soon as the oil starts to shimmer, place the meatballs without touching each other in a single layer. Turning each side until it is golden brown takes about 3 minutes. You do not have to cook the meatballs completely at this stage, as they will be cooked in the sauce. Drain the meatballs on a paper towel-lined plate.
Add 3 tablespoons olive oil, ghee (or butter), and any remaining chicken fat to the pan. Stirring over medium heat, add the garlic. Stir until fragrant and then add lemon juice, wine, capers, and white wine. Add salt to taste and bring the sauce to a rolling boil.
Finish the meatballs. Turn the heat down to low, and place the meatballs in the pan. Add a little sauce to the top. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the meatballs have cooked through.
Sprinkle the remaining parsley and lemon zest (about 2 tablespoons) on top. Serve with plenty of Piccata Sauce spooned on top.

Video

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Notes

To avoid crowding, brown meatballs in batches if your pan is small. The temperature of the pan will drop if the pan is overcrowded, preventing the meatballs to get golden brown.
Preheating your pan will prevent it from sticking if you do not have a nonstick one.
Browse our shop for quality Mediterranean ingredients such as olive oil, honey, jams, and spices.

Nutrition

Carbohydrates: 17.6g

The Mediterranean Dish first published Chicken Piccata Meatballs.

By: Suzy Karadsheh
Title: Chicken Piccata Meatballs
Sourced From: www.themediterraneandish.com/chicken-piccata-meatballs/
Published Date: Fri, 21 Apr 2023 13:37:44 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil?

Extra virgin olive olive oil can be substituted for regular olive olive oil in the Mediterranean diet. Though Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is preferred for its higher quality, nutritional benefits, and richer flavor, regular olive oil is still a viable option with its mild flavor profile. Regular olive oil can be used for daily meals such as stir-frying and roasting vegetables. This option has a lower price point than EVOO, and some say it may be better suited to higher heat applications such as deep frying. But, it doesn't have the same nutrients or positive compound as EVOO. You should make up these benefits by eating other foods whenever you can.

Is Rice on the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet allows rice and encourages it. This diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and healthy fats like olive oil and nuts. It also allows for moderate amounts of dairy products, fish and meat. Whole-grain whole-grain rice provides excellent carbohydrate sources that provide energy for the body. It's also rich in dietary fiber, which can improve digestion as well as provide essential nutrients for your health such iron, B vitamins and magnesium. In order to incorporate rice into your meals, you can add cooked grains to soups, stews and salads. It is possible to reduce added fat, if necessary, in order to eat rice-based meals within the guidelines of Mediterranean nutrition.

Is Banana permissible in the Mediterranean diet

Yes, bananas can be included in the Mediterranean diet. Bananas, a nutritious, low-calorie fruit, can provide beneficial dietary fibre, potassium, vitamin B6. As a healthy side dish, it can be incorporated into meals by adding sliced or mashed bananas to porridge, smoothies, salads, or even sweet potatoes. This can be eaten as a snack or with nut butter, such as peanut or almond. For those following the Mediterranean diet, bananas can be paired with healthy fats like nuts or seeds to aid digestion and promote fullness.

Can the Mediterranean Diet be made gluten-free?

Yes, it is possible to adapt the Mediterranean diet to be gluten free. Rather than using whole-grain sources of carbohydrates such as wheat or barley, gluten-free grains such as millet and quinoa can be incorporated into meals. You should also include fresh fruits, such as melon and pear, legumes, nuts and seeds, in your diet. For added protein sources such as dairy, choosing lactose-free products is sometimes beneficial for individuals intolerant to milk and gluten. For example, porridge can be substituted for oats and baked salmon with potatoes or bean soup as lunch. You could also roast vegetables with herbs for dinner.

Is the Mediterranean diet primarily plant-based?

Yes, the Mediterranean Diet is primarily plant-based. The Mediterranean Diet is primarily plant-based. This includes fruits, vegetables and legumes as well as nuts and seeds. However, animal proteins such as poultry, fish, and red meat are also present in smaller portions due to their traceable presence around the Mediterranean Sea historically. These protein sources can be omitted for those opting for a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle within this eating style. For additional nutrition and protein, you can also consider other dairy sources like tofu or soy yogurt.

What are the key principles of the Mediterranean diet's basic principles?

Mediterranean living is a lifestyle that emphasizes healthy, nutritious food choices and regular exercise. This diet emphasizes fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes, as well as healthy fats like olive oil and nuts. There is also a moderate amount of dairy products, fish and meat. Red wine is encouraged in moderation. These are the basic principles of the Mediterranean diet:

Eat primarily plant-based foods, including fruits and vegetables; whole-grain bread and cereals; beans (legumes), nuts, and seeds; healthy fats from olive oil and olives; small amounts of low-fat cheese; yogurt (preferably nonfat); fish (at least twice a week), small amounts of lean poultry or red meat about once per week; minimal fried foods.
When possible, prefer fresh ingredients to pre-packaged processed foods.
To enhance the flavor of your meals, add herbs to replace salt.
Take a walk after dinner to get in some exercise, or sign up for an exercise class.
Enjoy meals with family and friends and savor the experience of sharing food.
Mindful eating is about paying attention to the flavors, textures, smells, and textures of your food. This will help you recognize when you are full and satisfied.

Statistics

Aim to get 20 to 35 percent of your total daily caloric intake from fat, and for saturated fats to represent less than 10 percent of your total caloric intake, advises the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (everydayhealth.com)
One small study suggested that swapping one-half of your serving of a high-glycemic starch (like rice) with lentils helps lower the glycemic response by 20 percent. (everydayhealth.com)
Benefits of Replacing foods high in saturated fats (like butter) with plant sources high in monounsaturated fatty acids, like olive oil, may help lower the risk of heart disease by 19 percent, according to research. (everydayhealth.com)
1g sugar Benefits Rich in heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, these nuts may also favourably impact your gut microbiome (and thus improve digestive health) and lower LDL cholesterol, according to a small study that included 18 healthy adults. (everydayhealth.com)

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How To

How the Mediterranean Diet Helps You Lose Weight And Feel Great

The Mediterranean Diet emphasizes healthy fats and whole grains, legumes and fresh fruits and veggies. It has been linked to numerous potential health benefits, including better blood lipids, improved glucose control, reduced risk for depression and certain types of cancer, better cardiac health, enhanced cognitive function, and improved weight management. Adopting a Mediterranean diet can be made simpler with some tips. You can start to swap out high-calorie snacks like chips and replace them with nutrient dense vegetables. Learn how spices and other vegetable-derived ingredients can be used to enhance your diet. You can increase your satisfaction by incorporating grains, legumes, or high-fiber foods. These steps will help you enjoy your food, while also helping to improve your health.