Chicken Piccata is a delightful Italian dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon and caper sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a weekday meal or a special occasion, Chicken Piccata is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons capers
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon slices, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of Chicken Piccata (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately:
– Calories: 380
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
6. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up brown bits.
7. Stir in capers and bring the sauce to a simmer.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
10. Serve warm, garnished with lemon slices.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thinly sliced turkey or pork cutlets. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Piccata pairs wonderfully with pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread also complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Not dredging the chicken properly may result in a less crispy texture.
- Using too much flour can make the sauce too thick.
- Skipping the lemon juice can result in a bland flavor.
- Using old capers can diminish the dish’s flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
- Finish the sauce with a pat of butter for richness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for optimal texture and flavor, but if you must use frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and pounded to an even thickness before cooking.
What can I serve with Chicken Piccata?
Chicken Piccata is versatile; it pairs well with pasta, rice, or a light salad, and is often complemented by crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the chicken just before serving for best results.
Is Chicken Piccata spicy?
No, Chicken Piccata is not spicy. It features a bright, tangy flavor from lemon juice and capers without any heat.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with thinly sliced turkey or pork, offering a different twist while maintaining the delicious flavor profile.
Conclusion
Chicken Piccata is a quick, flavorful dish that elevates any meal. With its bright lemon and caper sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy at home!
Chicken Piccata
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up brown bits.
- Stir in capers and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with lemon slices.
