Description
Chicken Piccata is a vibrant, lemony, and savory dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests for a special occasion, this dish is bound to leave everyone craving more. The tender, pan-fried chicken breasts are coated in a luscious white wine sauce, brightened by fresh lemon juice and accented with the zesty bite of capers. In this article, we will delve into everything you need to know about preparing the best Chicken Piccata recipe. From the origin of this dish to the step-by-step cooking process and helpful variations, you will have all the tools to make this mouthwatering dish at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Sauce:
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
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1/2 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)
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1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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2 tablespoons capers (drained)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
To begin, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally, creating 4 thin cutlets. Alternatively, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch if you prefer. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
Once your chicken is prepared, season each piece generously with salt and pepper. If you prefer a hint of garlic flavor, you can also sprinkle garlic powder over the chicken. Next, dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess flour. This will give the chicken a light, crispy coating once fried.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will allow the chicken to rest while you prepare the sauce.
In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup of dry white wine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are packed with flavor, and incorporating them into the sauce will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Next, add 1/4 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of capers to the pan. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for another 2-3 minutes until it has reduced slightly.
To create a velvety smooth sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Once the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth, it’s time to return the chicken to the skillet.
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2 minutes, allowing it to reheat and soak in the flavors.
For a final touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken just before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce.
Your Chicken Piccata is now ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with side dishes such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The bright, tangy sauce will perfectly complement the tender chicken, making every bite an unforgettable experience.
Notes
Chicken Piccata is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with fresh, bright flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Serve it with pasta, rice, or a side of veggies for a complete and satisfying meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Easy Chicken Piccata Recipe