Chicken Piccata: A Classic Italian Dish Ready in 30 Minutes

Why You’ll Love Chicken Piccata

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!

• Flavor-Packed: A perfect balance of tangy lemon, briny capers, and rich butter.

• Versatile: Pair it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.

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Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Piccata:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• 3 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

• 3 tbsp butter (divided)

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• ¼ cup capers (rinsed and drained)

• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

• How to Make Chicken Piccata

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

     • Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets.

     • Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.

  2. Cook the Chicken:

     • Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

     • Cook the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the Sauce:

     • In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

     • Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the remaining 2 tbsp butter until melted and creamy.

  4. Finish the Dish:

     • Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through.

     • Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

     • Serving Suggestions

       • Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

       • Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

       • Add a glass of white wine (like Pinot Grigio) for a complete Italian dining experience.

       • Tips for the Best Chicken Piccata

         • Thin Cutlets: Pound the chicken to an even thickness for quick, even cooking.

         • Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—avoid bottled juice.

         • Don’t Skip the Capers: They add a unique briny flavor that’s essential to the dish.

         • Butter Finish: Adding butter at the end creates a rich, velvety sauce.

         • FAQs About Chicken Piccata

           1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
           Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time as needed.

           2. How do I store leftovers?
           Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

           3. Can I make it gluten-free?
           Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging.

           4. What can I substitute for capers?
           If you don’t have capers, try chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor.

         • Chicken Piccata is a classic dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its bright lemon-caper sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

           Try it out, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #WestSlopefood. Buon appetito!

         • Recipe Card

           Chicken Piccata

           • Prep Time: 10 minutes

           • Cook Time: 20 minutes

           • Total Time: 30 minutes

           • Serves: 4