Lemon Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a lemony sauce with capers. This dish is known for its bright and tangy flavors, making it a refreshing and satisfying meal. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Lemon Chicken Piccata step-by-step, so you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Piccata:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Lemon Chicken Piccata:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
- Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Finish and Serve:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional minute to heat the chicken through.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is a lean cut of meat that is high in protein. It’s important not to overcook it to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the chicken and butter.
- Capers: Capers are small, brined flower buds that add a salty and slightly tangy flavor to the dish. They complement the lemony sauce beautifully.
- Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce, creating a velvety texture.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Enjoy your Lemon Chicken Piccata with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal!