Delicious Chicken Piccata Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of chicken piccata. This Italian-American classic combines tender chicken breasts with a bright, zesty lemon and caper sauce that dances on your taste buds.

I love how this dish captures the essence of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Lemon slices for garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Cooked pasta or rice to serve as a side, optional

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious chicken piccata that’s bursting with flavor.

Prep

1. Start by pounding the boneless skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness of about half an inch. This helps them cook evenly.
2. On a large plate, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Prepare the ingredients for the sauce by squeezing fresh lemons to yield about ¼ cup of lemon juice and measuring out ¼ cup of capers. Chop a handful of fresh parsley for garnish.
4. Measure ½ cup of dry white wine and ¾ cup of chicken broth and set these aside.

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
2. Carefully add the floured chicken breasts to the pan, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. I usually check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
4. In the same skillet, add ½ cup of dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in ¾ cup of chicken broth, ¼ cup of lemon juice, and ¼ cup of capers. Allow this mixture to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
6. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the sauce, stirring until melted and incorporated. This enhances the flavor and richness of the sauce.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and let them cook together for an additional minute to absorb the flavors.
8. Finally, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your chicken piccata with a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my chicken piccata, I like to keep it simple yet flavorful. Here are my favorite recommendations that elevate this dish to a delightful dining experience.

Pasta or Rice

I often serve chicken piccata over a bed of al dente pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, allowing the sauce to soak into the noodles. Alternatively, a side of fluffy rice makes for a wonderful base that absorbs the tangy lemon and caper sauce beautifully.

Fresh Vegetables

I love adding a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables to my plate. Bright greens like asparagus, spinach, or green beans add a pop of color and freshness, complementing the zesty flavors of the chicken piccata.

Salad

A light arugula or mixed greens salad is a fantastic accompaniment. I toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. The crispness of the salad refreshes the palate perfectly.

Bread

I always keep some crusty bread on the table. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious lemon-caper sauce. A slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette adds a comforting touch.

Wine Pairing

To complete the meal, I suggest a glass of crisp white wine. A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s flavors while providing a refreshing balance.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the chicken piccata experience but also create a lovely dining atmosphere for family and friends.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this chicken piccata recipe as I am. It’s such a wonderful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends this meal is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and a glass of white wine to elevate the experience. I can’t wait to hear how your chicken piccata turns out. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chicken piccata?

Chicken piccata is an Italian-American dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a vibrant lemon and caper sauce. This dish combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful meal.

What ingredients do I need for chicken piccata?

To make chicken piccata, you need boneless skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, unsalted butter, dry white wine, chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, capers, and parsley. Optional sides include pasta or rice.

How do you prepare chicken piccata?

Begin by pounding the chicken to an even thickness and dredging it in flour. Cook the chicken in olive oil until golden brown, then make a sauce with white wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Return the chicken to the skillet to soak up the flavors.

What should I serve with chicken piccata?

Chicken piccata pairs well with al dente pasta or fluffy rice and sautéed or steamed vegetables. A light salad and crusty bread to soak up the sauce enhance the meal. Choose a crisp white wine for a delightful complement.

Can I customize chicken piccata?

Yes! You can customize chicken piccata by adding vegetables, using different herbs, or adjusting the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. Experiment with side dishes for a personalized touch to the meal.

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