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German Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Caper Sauce

Tender chicken meatballs poached in flavorful broth and served with a rich, tangy caper cream sauce - a lighter version of classic Königsberger Klopse.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: European, German
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Chicken Meatballs
  • 1.5 pounds ground chicken
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 1 small onion finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 egg large
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 lemon zest only
Creamy Caper Sauce
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup white wine
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons capers drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • salt and white pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Slotted spoon
  • Fine-mesh sieve

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes until breadcrumbs absorb all liquid.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, soaked breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Mix gently until evenly combined.
  3. With damp hands, shape mixture into 12-14 meatballs about 2 inches in diameter. Place on a plate as you form them.
  4. In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, bring chicken broth and white wine to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  5. Carefully lower meatballs into simmering liquid. Poach gently for 15-18 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through. Remove with slotted spoon and set aside.
  6. Strain cooking liquid through fine-mesh sieve. Reserve 2.5 cups of this broth for the sauce.
  7. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux.
  8. Gradually whisk in reserved cooking liquid. Continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  9. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, capers, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
  10. Return meatballs to sauce and warm through for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve with boiled potatoes, egg noodles, or spätzle. The dish reheats beautifully and can be made ahead. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.