Chicken Piccata

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish known for its tender chicken cutlets, light breading, and tangy lemon-caper sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that feels elegant yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The bright acidity of the lemon paired with the briny capers creates a mouthwatering combination that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

ingredients

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

chicken breastssalt and pepperall-purpose flourolive oilbuttergarlicchicken brothfresh lemon juicecapersfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Add the capers and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Substitute white wine for part of the chicken broth for added depth.

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.

Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a silkier texture.

Include thinly sliced lemon rounds for garnish and extra citrus bite.

Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Chicken Piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce smooth.It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the lemon sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What does “piccata” mean?

“Piccata” refers to a preparation method where meat is sliced, sautéed, and served in a lemon, butter, and caper sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend to dredge the chicken.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free butter substitute and ensure your broth is dairy-free.

Is Chicken Piccata spicy?

No, it has a bright and tangy flavor but no heat. Add red pepper flakes if you want a kick.

Do I have to use capers?

Capers are traditional, but if you dislike them, chopped green olives can be a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead and reheat gently when ready to serve.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Pounding it evenly and not overcooking ensures tender results.

Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor.

Can I thicken the sauce?

Yes, whisk in a bit of flour or cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Piccata?

Pasta, steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad pair well with this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Piccata is a fast, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Its zesty lemon-caper sauce adds a gourmet touch to simple ingredients, making it a standout recipe in any home cook’s collection. Serve it once, and it may just become a repeat favorite on your dinner table.

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