The BEST Chicken Piccata

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Piccata recipe is the perfect balance of bright citrus, savory capers, and rich butter. The crispy, tender chicken breast pairs beautifully with the luscious, tangy sauce, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or just love a quick and flavorful meal, Chicken Piccata will quickly become a favorite. It’s simple to make but delivers restaurant-quality results. The light yet rich flavor of the sauce is what makes this dish stand out, and it pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

• 1 lemon
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 cup chicken broth or white wine, or a combination of both
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
• Flat-leaf parsley, for serving (optional)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, then gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This will ensure they cook evenly.
2. Season and Dredge: Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess flour.
3. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the canola oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth (or white wine, or a combination of both). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add the Capers and Lemon: Stir in the capers and the juice of the lemon (be sure to strain the seeds out if needed). Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish the Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
7. Serve: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley, if desired.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: For added flavor and texture, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
• Use Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little cornstarch mixed with water to the broth or wine, and stir it in during the simmering step.
• Wine Pairing: If you choose to use white wine in the sauce, pair the dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a complete experience.
• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. They will provide a slightly richer flavor and remain more moist.

2. Can I make this dish without wine?

Yes, you can replace the wine with extra chicken broth. The sauce will still be flavorful without the wine.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add the chicken to the sauce and heat through.

4. What should I serve with Chicken Piccata?

Chicken Piccata pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad would also be excellent options.

5. Can I make the sauce creamier?

For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking, just before adding the butter. This will give the sauce a creamy texture.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.

7. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before cooking them. Frozen chicken can release too much moisture and affect the texture of the dish.

8. Can I use a non-stick pan to cook the chicken?

Yes, you can use a non-stick pan to cook the chicken, though a regular stainless steel skillet will help you get a better sear on the chicken, which adds flavor to the sauce.

9. Can I make this recipe without capers?

Capers add a unique tang to the dish, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave them out. You can also substitute with green olives for a similar briny flavor.

10. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to dredge the chicken before cooking.

Conclusion

The BEST Chicken Piccata is the perfect combination of crispy chicken, zesty lemon, and a savory caper-infused sauce. It’s a quick, easy, and elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal every time.

Print