Chicken Piccata is a tasty dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a bright lemony sauce with capers. It’s easy to make and offers a perfect balance of flavors!
This dish always impresses my family at dinner. The fun part? Hearing them say, “More sauce, please!” as I gladly oblige. It’s that good! 😄
I love serving Chicken Piccata with pasta or a light salad. It’s quick to whip up on busy nights, and it always feels like a special meal without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish light and tender. If you prefer, thinly sliced chicken thighs can add richer flavor and moisture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for dredging and creating a nice crust. For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the salt level. You can replace it with a dairy-free butter or olive oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Capers: These are essential for that distinctive flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives can be a decent substitute, though they’ll taste different.
How Can I Get the Perfect Cook on the Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to allow proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will keep it juicy. Enjoy your Chicken Piccata with its bright flavors and crispy texture!
Delicious Chicken Piccata Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to about 1/2 inch thickness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 30 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give it a good sprinkle to ensure each bite is flavorful.
2. Dredge in Flour:
Next, coat the chicken in the all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off any excess flour. This will help create a nice crust when cooked.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the fresh lemon juice, chicken broth (or white wine), and capers. Bring this mixture to a boil while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these bits have amazing flavor! Let it boil for about a minute or two.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3 minutes until it reduces slightly. Then, take the skillet off the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts and gives the sauce a beautiful, glossy finish.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the lovely sauce over it to warm the chicken through for another minute. Then, transfer each chicken breast to individual serving plates, drizzling more sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley to add a pop of color!
7. Enjoy it!
Serve your Chicken Piccata immediately, paired best with pasta, rice, or sautéed veggies. Enjoy this delicious, tangy dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Enjoy your flavorful and elegant Chicken Piccata—tangy, buttery, and perfectly enhanced by capers and fresh lemon!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They are slightly richer and more tender than breasts, so you’ll get a deliciously juicy dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time a bit if the thighs are thicker.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth or a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar for a similar acidity and flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the chicken is best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce when you’re ready to cook the chicken!