Name: Chicken Piccata Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that’s light, flavorful, and quick to prepare. The tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a tangy, zesty lemon and caper sauce that’s perfectly balanced with butter . It’s an elegant yet simple dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The bright, bold flavors are enhanced with a touch of fresh parsley, making Chicken Piccata a refreshing and satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Chicken Piccata Recipe

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), pounded to an even thickness
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup capers, drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Lightly dredge each piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. This helps to create a crispy coating when searing the chicken.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and let it melt. Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any brown bits left from the chicken. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

4. Add Capers and Final Touches:

Stir in the capers and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the sauce cook for another minute or two, until the butter is fully incorporated, and the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors and heat through.

6. Serve:

Transfer the chicken to serving plates, spoon the sauce and capers over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side, such as pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes along with the chicken for added flavor and texture.
Creamy Chicken Piccata: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamy version of the dish.
Chicken Piccata with Caponata: Top the chicken with a Sicilian-style caponata (a mix of eggplant, olives, and tomatoes) for a Mediterranean twist.
Gluten-Free Chicken Piccata: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Chicken Piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave the chicken for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Piccata ahead of time?

While Chicken Piccata is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken in the sauce when ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time since chicken thighs take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for this recipe, as frozen chicken can release excess water during cooking, affecting the texture of the dish.

Can I make this recipe without capers?

Yes, if you don’t like capers or can’t find them, you can leave them out. For a similar briny flavor, try adding green olives or a splash

Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add fresh thyme, rosemary, or even basil for a variation in flavor. Just make sure the herbs complement the lemon and caper flavor profile.

Conclusion

Chicken Piccata is a classic, flavorful dish that combines tangy lemon, briny capers, and tender chicken for a deliciously balanced meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels elegant enough for a special occasion. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Chicken Piccata with this easy and satisfying recipe!

Jane

Chicken Piccata Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients