Classic Chicken Piccata with Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce

Indulge in the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with our mouthwatering Chicken Piccata recipe! Tender chicken breasts, lightly coated in seasoned flour, pan-seared to golden perfection, and bathed in a zesty lemon caper sauce, this dish is a true culinary delight. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting homemade meal, Chicken Piccata is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to recreate this Italian favorite in your own kitchen.

 

 

Ingredients: For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Lemon Caper Sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup capers, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Dredge the seasoned chicken breasts in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will create a light coating that helps to seal in moisture and create a golden crust when cooked.
3. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Lemon Caper Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, capers, and minced garlic. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced.
5. Finish the Sauce: Add the remaining butter to the skillet and stir until melted, creating a silky and flavorful sauce. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Chicken Piccata to serving plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Enjoy: Serve the Chicken Piccata immediately, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Italy with every bite!

 

Tips for Success:

• Thinly Pound the Chicken: Evenly pounding the chicken breasts ensures they cook evenly and tenderize, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds bright and zesty flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice for a balanced flavor profile.

 

Variations:

• Veal Piccata: Substitute veal cutlets for the chicken breasts for a classic Italian dish with a twist.
• Artichoke Hearts: Add drained and quartered artichoke hearts to the sauce for an additional layer of flavor and texture.
• White Wine Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with dry white wine before adding the chicken broth for a richer and more complex sauce.

 

With our Classic Chicken Piccata recipe, you can bring the flavors of Italy to your dinner table with ease. Tender chicken breasts, tangy lemon caper sauce, and fresh herbs come together in a symphony of flavors that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether served for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Chicken Piccata is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy with this delightful dish!