Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a tangy, buttery lemon sauce with capers. This easy-to-make recipe brings bright flavors and a gourmet feel to your table, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bright, zesty lemon sauce balanced with savory capers and buttery goodness.
- Pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
- A restaurant-quality dish that can be made at home in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Capers (drained)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in capers and return the chicken to the pan, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or seitan and adjust the cooking time.
- Add Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts along with the garlic for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I substitute for capers?
Chopped green olives or a dash of lemon zest can provide a similar tangy flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, skip the flour or use almond flour instead.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Piccata?
Pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes complement the dish perfectly.
Can I freeze Chicken Piccata?
Yes, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
What wine pairs well with Chicken Piccata?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a delightful blend of zesty, buttery flavors that elevate a simple chicken dish into something special. Quick to prepare and full of bright, tangy goodness, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience at home.
PrintChicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken breasts lightly coated in flour, pan-fried until golden, and served with a tangy lemon-butter sauce. Capers add a briny punch, making this dish both flavorful and refreshing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally for 4 thin cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess. -
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside. -
Make the Lemon Sauce:
In the same skillet, add butter, lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces. -
Combine & Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 2 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
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