Chicken piccata is a classic Italian dish that combines the savory flavors of sautéed chicken with a bright, tangy sauce made from lemon and capers. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether served over pasta or with a side of vegetables, chicken piccata is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of chicken piccata (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season the 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 breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. 5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. 6. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. 7. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits. 8. Stir in capers and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes. 9. Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. 10. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through. 
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or cornstarch. You may also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken piccata pairs beautifully with a side of pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The tangy sauce also complements rice or quinoa, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
Storage and Reheating
To store chicken piccata, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not seasoning the chicken adequately.
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to dryness.
- Skipping the flour dredging, which helps create a nice crust.
- Using too much heat, which can burn the sauce.
- Not scraping the skillet to incorporate flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs for added depth.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing for juicier results.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra capers for a burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for capers?
If you don’t have capers, you can use green olives or even a dash of pickle juice for a similar tangy flavor.
Is chicken piccata gluten-free?
The traditional recipe is not gluten-free due to the flour. However, you can make it gluten-free by substituting with almond flour or cornstarch.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with thinly sliced pork or turkey, providing a delicious alternative to chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should also be golden brown and juices should run clear when pierced.
Conclusion
In summary, chicken piccata is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade Italian classic!
Chicken Piccata Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons capers rinsed and drained
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the 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 breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in capers and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
