Print

Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata
Print Recipe

A quick and delicious Chicken Piccata recipe combining tangy lemon, salty capers, and buttery richness in under 30 minutes. This classic Italian-American dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts in a vibrant sauce perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced or pounded about 1/2 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond/gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced (plus optional thin slices for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (or extra broth for alcohol-free)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess to avoid a gummy crust.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dredged chicken and cook about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.
  3. Make the sauce: Lower heat to medium and pour in fresh lemon juice, chicken broth (or white wine), and capers. Stir, scraping up browned bits from the pan to add flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Finish the sauce: Stir in remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons butter until melted and the sauce becomes silky smooth. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over each piece. Warm through for 1-2 minutes to absorb flavors.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken. Serve immediately with preferred sides and optional lemon slices for extra zest.

Notes

  • Even thickness is key for quick, even cooking.
  • Light flour dredging enhances the sauce and creates a golden crust.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
  • Cook over medium to medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear without burning.
  • Scraping the pan after searing adds depth and richness to the sauce.
  • For dairy-free, omit butter or replace with dairy-free margarine or extra olive oil.
  • Substitute flours for gluten-free adaptations.
  • Optional additions: garlic sauté, mushrooms, or turkey cutlets for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Piccata, quick dinner, lemon chicken, Italian chicken recipe, capers, gluten free chicken, buttery sauce, easy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/chicken-piccata/