Lunch

Creamy Lemon Chicken Meatballs

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce); 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

ByMariem August 29, 2025

Jump to Recipe

These creamy lemon chicken meatballs offer a delightful twist on the classic chicken piccata. Tender, juicy meatballs are simmered in a rich, lemony garlic sauce, creating a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and fresh. This is a perfect weeknight meal with simple ingredients and elevated flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy, comforting dinner that’s also easy to prepare. The lemon garlic cream sauce provides a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the meatballs. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it makes for a deliciously satisfying meal. Moreover, it uses lean ground chicken, making it a healthier alternative to traditional meatball dishes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground chicken
Breadcrumbs
Grated parmesan
Garlic
Egg
Dried oregano
Onion powder
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
Butter
All-purpose flour
Fresh lemon juice
Chicken broth
Heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
Fresh parsley

directions

In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, minced garlic, egg, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add lemon juice and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
Stir in the cream and let simmer until slightly thickened.
Return meatballs to the skillet and let simmer in the sauce for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The total time required is about 35 minutes, including 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mix or the sauce for extra heat.
Low-carb: Substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour.
Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative.
Herbaceous twist: Mix in fresh dill or basil for an added layer of flavor.
Grain-free: Serve over mashed cauliflower or spiralized zucchini instead of pasta or rice.

storage/reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What can I serve with creamy lemon chicken meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and can be used as a direct substitute for ground chicken.

Is it necessary to sear the meatballs before simmering in the sauce?

Searing enhances flavor and texture, but you could bake the meatballs instead for a lighter preparation.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour during the roux step.

Can I use lemon zest for added flavor?

Yes, lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor without increasing the acidity of the sauce.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, then add them to the sauce.

What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk are both suitable options, depending on dietary preferences.

How long does the sauce take to thicken?

Once the cream is added, the sauce typically thickens within 5–7 minutes of simmering.

Conclusion

Creamy lemon chicken meatballs bring together savory and citrusy flavors in a luscious, velvety sauce. The dish is simple enough for a weekday dinner, yet elegant enough to serve guests. With flexible ingredient options and variations, it can be adapted to suit a range of tastes and dietary needs, making it a dependable and delicious recipe to keep in your regular rotation.

Mariem