Lemon Chicken Piccata is a bright and tangy Italian dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful lemon, caper, and butter sauce. This simple yet elegant recipe brings together the freshness of lemon and the rich, savory notes of garlic and white wine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Lemon Chicken Piccata pairs wonderfully with pasta or a light salad for a complete meal.
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 4
- Serving size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1 lb)
- 60g (½ cup) all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 60g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 120ml (½ cup) dry white wine (optional)
- 120ml (½ cup) chicken broth
- 60ml (¼ cup) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1.5 cm (½ inch). Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting it with foil to keep warm.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth, scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid reduce for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the lemon and capers: Stir in the lemon juice, capers, and the remaining butter. Simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the chicken: Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, drizzle with the lemon caper sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Pound the chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking and avoid dry spots.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken, as this can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice won’t give the same bright, fresh taste.
- Deglaze the pan thoroughly with wine or broth to capture all the caramelized bits for a richer sauce.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, as the sauce can thicken if left to sit too long.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this recipe without wine? Yes, you can substitute the wine with extra chicken broth for an alcohol-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor, but ensure they are boneless and pounded to an even thickness for quick cooking.
- What can I serve with Lemon Chicken Piccata? It pairs wonderfully with pasta (like angel hair or linguine), steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Can I make Lemon Chicken Piccata ahead of time? It's best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- Is there a gluten-free option? You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Lemon Chicken Piccata is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and light flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it to impress guests, this quick and elegant meal is sure to become a favorite. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, and you have an unforgettable dining experience.