The allure of Easy Chicken Piccata lies in its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. This delightful dish combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you are a busy home cook or an aspiring chef, this recipe provides a quick yet sophisticated meal option that impresses everyone at the dinner table.
Moreover, the beauty of this Italian-inspired creation is its versatility. You can serve Easy Chicken Piccata with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Additionally, the easy-to-follow steps ensure that even novice cooks can master this flavorful dish in no time. Dive into the world of homemade comfort food with this delightful recipe that makes weeknight dinners exciting again!
What Makes a Great Chicken Piccata:
A superb chicken piccata is all about balance and vibrant flavors. The essence lies in the juicy, tender chicken, which should be lightly dredged and perfectly sautéed to achieve a delightful golden crust. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while capers introduce a tangy, briny kick. The sauce, often finished with a pat of butter, should be rich without being overpowering, allowing the other flavors to shine.
In crafting the perfect dish, the choice of chicken is vital. Opt for thinly sliced chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking. Additionally, pairing your chicken piccata with a side dish elevates the meal; consider serving it alongside a comforting chicken corn chowder to create a satisfying spread.
Ultimately, a great chicken piccata showcases simplicity and freshness, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Piccata:
To create a delightful Easy Chicken Piccata, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Flour (for dredging)
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon brined capers, drained
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
Start by seasoning and dredging the chicken in flour. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chicken until golden brown. Then, add chicken broth or wine, lemon juice, zest, and drained capers. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors. Finish by stirring in heavy cream and the remaining butter for a smooth sauce. Serve this delicious dish with pasta or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For more delicious ideas, check out this flavorful Crockpot Shredded Buffalo Chicken.
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Easy Chicken Piccata
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Chicken Piccata recipe features tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection and coated in a luscious lemon and caper sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
Salt & pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Flour (for dredging)
4 tablespoons butter divided
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon brined capers drained
1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge them in flour, shaking off the excess.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth (or wine), lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Capers should be added and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a garnish. This dish pairs well with pasta or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Easy Chicken Piccata, chicken piccata, easy dinner recipe, quick chicken recipe
How to Prepare Easy Chicken Piccata:
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Next, dredge each breast in flour, shaking off the excess. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and brined capers, allowing the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes. Reduce the heat to low and blend in the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Add the remaining butter for richness. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the delicious sauce. Serve your Easy Chicken Piccata with pasta or greens for a delightful meal. For more chicken inspiration, check out this creamy chicken recipe. For additional detailed tips, visit Salt and Lavender’s Chicken Piccata guide.
Tips for Perfect Easy Chicken Piccata:
To create the ultimate Easy Chicken Piccata, focus on the quality of your ingredients. Start with fresh, thinly sliced chicken breasts to ensure quick cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, season the chicken well before dusting it with flour. Use a combination of butter and olive oil in the pan; this blend enhances flavor while providing a nice browning.
As you add the lemon juice and capers, keep the heat high to create a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken. A splash of white wine can brighten the dish further—make sure to reduce it slightly before adding your chicken back in. Lastly, serve your dish with a side of pasta or enjoy it over a bed of greens for a lighter option. For another flavorful chicken recipe, consider trying out my Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup for a cozy meal. Remember, the key is to keep everything simple and fresh for your Easy Chicken Piccata to shine!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Piccata:
When serving your Easy Chicken Piccata, consider pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its delightful flavors. A classic choice is a light spinach salad, which adds a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic herb quinoa perfectly absorb the tangy lemon and caper sauce.
You could elevate your meal by complementing it with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or sautéed zucchini, adding both color and additional nutrients. If you want something more substantial, try pairing it with the irresistible Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken. The sweet and savory notes of this dish harmonize beautifully with the zesty Chicken Piccata.
For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a non-alcoholic spritzer complements the dish well. These pairing ideas will not only enhance the overall dining experience but also highlight the flavors of your Easy Chicken Piccata. Enjoy your meal!
Storage Tips:
For optimal freshness, store your Easy Chicken Piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re looking to make this dish ahead of time, consider prepping components separately. For a delightful side, try serving it with Crock-Pot Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, which also reheat beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Easy Chicken Piccata?
Easy Chicken Piccata is a flavorful Italian dish made with tender chicken breasts sautéed and served in a light lemony sauce, enhanced by capers for a burst of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or any special occasion.
How do you make Easy Chicken Piccata?
To prepare this dish, start by flattening the chicken breasts for even cooking. Dredge them in flour, then pan-fry until golden brown. Deglaze the pan with white wine, add lemon juice, and stir in capers to develop the delicious sauce. Serve over pasta or with a side of vegetables.
Can I substitute ingredients in Easy Chicken Piccata?
Absolutely! For a twist, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding herbs like parsley or substituting the white wine with chicken broth.
Is Easy Chicken Piccata healthy?
Yes! Easy Chicken Piccata is a lean protein dish. You can further enhance its health benefits by serving it with steamed vegetables or a salad. Additionally, you can control the amount of butter to reduce calories.
What pairs well with Easy Chicken Piccata?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, steamed asparagus, or roasted potatoes. If you’re interested in a heartier option, consider making Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup for a comforting contrast.
Can Easy Chicken Piccata be made ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can be cooked in advance and reheated gently in the sauce to prevent drying out. However, it’s best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor. Each bite of this dish is designed to be savory and succulent!