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Chicken Piccata Meatballs with Orzo

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Chicken Piccata Meatballs with Orzo is a bright and comforting twist on the classic dish. Juicy chicken meatballs are simmered in a lemony butter-caper sauce and served with tender orzo for a complete, elegant yet easy meal.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 oz orzo pasta
  • Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form into 1½-inch meatballs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides and remove from pan.
  5. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  6. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Stir and bring to a simmer.
  7. Return meatballs to the pan. Cover and cook for 7–10 minutes until fully cooked.
  8. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Toss with cooked orzo or serve meatballs on top.
  9. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey instead of chicken for variation.
  • Add fresh spinach to orzo for extra greens.
  • Stir in cream or butter at the end for a richer sauce.
  • Serve with rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes as alternatives.
  • Thin lemon slices can be added for more citrus flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/chicken-piccata-meatballs-with-orzo/