Zesty Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce 🍋
Experience a burst of flavor with this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce recipe! Featuring tender, golden-brown chicken cutlets in a tangy lemon and caper sauce, this Italian classic makes for an easy yet elegant dish. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it’s a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients for Chicken Piccata
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- Flour Mixture:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a savory kick and helps create a crispy crust
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – for a touch of earthy flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- Lemon Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth – enhances richness and flavor
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional) – for depth and complexity; can substitute with additional chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – gives the sauce its signature tanginess
- 1 tablespoon capers – brings a unique, briny flavor that balances the lemony sauce
- Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – adds color and freshness
Instructions for Making Chicken Piccata
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, grated Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in this mixture, ensuring a light, even coating. Shake off any excess for a clean, crisp result.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering. Add the chicken slices, cooking each for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Create the Lemon Sauce:
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Scrape the pan to release any browned bits, which add flavor. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced by half.
- Finish the Sauce with Lemon and Capers:
- Stir in the lemon juice and capers, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, for a complete meal!
🍋 Additional Tips for Perfect Chicken Piccata
- For Extra Crispiness: Use a mix of flour and breadcrumbs in the coating for an extra-crispy finish.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer to skip the wine, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or an extra squeeze of lemon for acidity.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative to suit dietary needs.
- Meal Pairing: Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up the delicious lemon-caper sauce.
🍴 Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Piccata
This Chicken Piccata recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home with simple ingredients. The tangy lemon and caper sauce offers a fresh and lively flavor that pairs beautifully with tender chicken. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special celebration, this dish is an easy way to impress. Enjoy this timeless classic and make it your new go-to recipe!
Bon appétit!