I have to tell you, this Chicken Piccata recipe has forever changed the way I view weeknight dinners! The crispy golden chicken combined with a velvety, lemony butter sauce and salty capers creates an irresistible balance of flavors.
The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and every time I serve it, there’s nothing but clean plates at the table. Trust me, after you try this recipe, you’ll be eager to make it again and again!
Source: therecipecritic
Ingredients You Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to making a great Chicken Piccata. Each item plays an important role in flavor and texture.
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into halves): Chicken breasts are ideal because of their mild flavor. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory base to season the chicken.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging): Creates a crisp coating. Don’t skip this step!
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Butter is key to the sauce’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning while cooking.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine): Adds depth to the sauce.
- 1 fresh lemon (juice and zest): Always use fresh lemon for the best tangy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brined capers (drained): Brings a salty, briny element to the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional): Creates a rich, creamy variation of the sauce.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
Note: This recipe serves 4 people. Adjust the quantities if you’re cooking for more or fewer guests.
Variations
Customizing Chicken Piccata is easy! Here are some options to suit your dietary needs or enhance the flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative, and skip the cream.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour.
- Zestier Sauce: Add a bit more lemon juice or some lemon zest for a stronger tang.
- Garlic Lovers: Sauté fresh minced garlic (1-2 cloves) in the sauce for an extra-savory touch.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and rinse the capers thoroughly to reduce saltiness.
For a pasta pairing idea, try this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long the recipe will take from prep to plate:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
You don’t need much to whip up this delicious dish! Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Cutting board and knife: For slicing and prepping ingredients.
- Meat mallet: To thin out the chicken pieces evenly.
- Shallow bowl or plate: For dredging the chicken in flour.
- Large skillet: For pan-frying the chicken and making the sauce.
- Tongs: To handle the chicken while cooking.
- Microplane zester: To get the freshest lemon zest.
- Small whisk: For smoothing the sauce.
How to Make Chicken Piccata?
Making this iconic Italian-American dish is simpler than you think. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are magical.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing each chicken breast lengthwise into two thinner halves. If they’re uneven, use a meat mallet to pound them to uniform thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season and Dredge
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then dredge each piece lightly in flour until fully coated. Shake off any excess to avoid a gummy texture.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts sizzling, place the chicken pieces in the skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Turn the heat down slightly and add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Stir in the remaining butter and capers. For a creamier version, add the heavy cream at this stage and whisk gently until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust for salt if needed.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece in the sauce. Allow it to heat for another minute or two, then remove from the heat.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Based on experience, here are some easy tips to elevate your Chicken Piccata:
- Fresh is best: Use fresh lemons, freshly chopped parsley, and unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken instead of searing it.
- Use a thermometer: Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Keep it warm: If the chicken cooks faster than expected, tent it with foil to keep it warm while the sauce finishes.
If you love creamy dishes, you might enjoy this Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta with Summer Vegetables.
How to Serve Chicken Piccata?
Chicken Piccata is a dish that shines on its own, but a few thoughtful accompaniments make it even more special:
- Serve it over angel hair pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and some lemon slices for a restaurant-like presentation.
- Pair it with a light side salad or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 395
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 28g
Make Ahead and Storage
Chicken Piccata is versatile if you’re planning ahead. Here’s how to store leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Warm it in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture.
- Freeze: Avoid freezing the creamy version, but the non-creamy version can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
There’s a reason this dish is a fan favorite! Here’s why you might make it your go-to:
- Quick and easy: Great for a busy weeknight that still feels fancy.
- Customizable: Dairy-free, gluten-free, and flavor-packed options for all preferences.
- Restaurant-quality: It feels like something you’d order at a bistro but made right in your kitchen.
- Crowd-pleaser: The flavors appeal to various palates, making it a safe bet for serving guests.
- One-pan wonder: Less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
For more chicken inspiration, check out this Chicken Recipes collection.
Best Chicken Piccata Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by slicing each chicken breast lengthwise into two thinner halves. If they’re uneven, use a meat mallet to pound them to uniform thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then dredge each piece lightly in flour until fully coated. Shake off any excess to avoid a gummy texture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts sizzling, place the chicken pieces in the skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Turn the heat down slightly and add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining butter and capers. For a creamier version, add the heavy cream at this stage and whisk gently until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust for salt if needed.
- Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece in the sauce. Allow it to heat for another minute or two, then remove from the heat.
Notes
- Serve it over angel hair pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and some lemon slices for a restaurant-like presentation.
- Pair it with a light side salad or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
