Introduction
Indulge in the bright and tangy flavors of Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce! This classic Italian dish features tender, pan-seared chicken breasts bathed in a luscious lemon sauce, accented with capers for a delightful burst of flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and savory butter creates a sauce that perfectly complements the chicken, making it a quick yet elegant dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Piccata is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bright and Flavorful: The lemon sauce adds a refreshing zing that elevates the dish.
- Elegant Presentation: This dish looks and tastes gourmet, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Low-Carb Option: A great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients List
- ✔️ 🔹 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ✔️ 🔹 Salt and pepper, to taste
- ✔️ 🔹 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- ✔️ 🔹 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ✔️ 🔹 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ✔️ 🔹 1/2 cup chicken broth
- ✔️ 🔹 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- ✔️ 🔹 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- ✔️ 🔹 Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ✔️ 🔹 Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
Note: For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card on cookingforhome.com.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Season: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the Chicken
- Coat in Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will give the chicken a nice crust when cooked.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until hot and bubbly.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Lemon Sauce
- Deglaze the Pan: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Add Capers: Stir in the capers and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Pro Tip: Serve the chicken piccata over a bed of cooked pasta or rice to soak up the delicious lemon sauce!
Variations & Substitutions
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Wine Addition: For a richer flavor, replace half of the chicken broth with white wine.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well in this recipe, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I serve with chicken piccata?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are also great options.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While chicken piccata is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the chicken just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a delightful dish that combines bright flavors with tender chicken, making it a must-try for any home cook. With its quick preparation and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments below! For more delicious recipes, visit cookingforhome.com and follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🍋🍗🌿
Print
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
This Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a delightful and zesty dish featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection and served in a bright, tangy lemon sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this classic Italian recipe is sure to impress! 🍋🍗✨
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and drizzle the lemon sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy this delicious Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce! 🍋❤️
