Chicken Piccata is a delightful Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a bright, tangy lemon and caper sauce. This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The juicy chicken paired with the zesty sauce creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also feels light and refreshing, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this Chicken Piccata recipe for its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of lemon, garlic, and capers creates a deliciously tangy sauce that elevates the dish without overwhelming it. It’s a quick and straightforward recipe, requiring minimal cooking time while delivering maximum flavor. Additionally, Chicken Piccata fits well into many diets, being naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great choice for those looking for a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
- Use thinly sliced chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and to reduce the cooking time. If you have thicker breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness.
- For an extra punch of flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and a bit of garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- When adding the capers, be sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess saltiness. This will balance the flavors in the dish.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream after the sauce has been simmering for a minute or two.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to avoid dryness.
- Not seasoning adequately: Don’t forget to season both the chicken and the sauce. A pinch of salt and fresh black pepper can make a world of difference.
- Skipping the deglazing step: After cooking the chicken, be sure to scrape up the brown bits from the pan before adding the sauce. These bits add incredible flavor.
- Using old or dry capers: Fresh capers will provide a more vibrant flavor, so be sure to use quality ones.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic the night before to enhance the flavor. Also, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it on the stove before adding the cooked chicken. The chicken can be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to three days as well, making it an excellent meal prep option.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for veal or turkey for a different take on this classic dish.
- For a vegetarian option, use eggplant or portobello mushrooms in place of chicken.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor profile.
- Consider using fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added depth.
How to Serve
Serve your Chicken Piccata on a large, white plate to highlight the bright colors of the dish. Pour the lemon-caper sauce generously over the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. For sides, consider serving it with classic spaghetti aglio e olio, steamed asparagus, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio works beautifully with the zesty flavors of Chicken Piccata. If you prefer cocktails, a gin and tonic or a classic mojito can also be refreshing choices. As for desserts, a light lemon sorbet or panna cotta would be perfect to finish off the meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. Chicken Piccata can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to store the chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or sauté pan to cook the chicken and sauce. A meat mallet is handy for pounding the chicken to an even thickness, and a cutting board and knife will be essential for prep work. If you don’t have a skillet, you can also use a non-stick frying pan.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, you can skip the butter in the sauce or use a dairy-free butter substitute. If you need a nut-free option, simply ensure that your flour and any additional sauces are nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh garden peas or asparagus to the dish for an added touch of freshness and color. In the fall, you could incorporate mushrooms for a earthier flavor profile. In winter, pair it with roasted root vegetables for a hearty side.
Cost Breakdown
Estimated cost per serving of Chicken Piccata is around $5 to $7, depending on the freshness of the ingredients. For budget-friendly swaps, consider using frozen chicken breasts or a smaller amount of capers. Lemon juice can be substituted with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Kitchen Hacks
To peel garlic quickly, smash the clove with the flat side of a knife, and the skin will come off easily. For slicing onions without tears, chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting. To ensure even cooking, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before dredging in flour.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe, just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Can I substitute capers? If you don’t have capers, you can use green olives, but they will change the flavor profile slightly.
- How long should I cook the chicken? Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through.
How To Make chicken piccata recipe
Chicken Piccata
Chicken Piccata is a delightful Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a bright, tangy lemon and caper sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat and return the chicken to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Plate the chicken, drizzle the sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 274Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 67mgSodium 337mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 21g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Piccata is a timeless recipe that offers a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and share it with family and friends for a meal that is sure to impress!