Easy Chicken Piccata

Growing up, one of the most memorable meals in my household was always the Easy Chicken Piccata. My mother would whip it up on busy weeknights, filling our kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that hinted at the deliciousness to come. The combination of tender chicken, bright lemon, and briny capers made for a dish that was both comforting and sophisticated. I remember the first time I made it on my own; it felt like a rite of passage. Cooking the chicken to a perfect golden brown was almost like an art form, and the joy of plating it up was matched only by the eager smiles around the table. Every bite took me back to those cherished family gatherings where laughter and love flowed just as freely as the food.

Creating the Easy Chicken Piccata is not just about following a recipe; it’s about rekindling those beautiful memories with every sizzle in the pan. It’s a dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between casual dinners and special occasions, giving you a chance to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. I often find myself making this recipe when I want to bring a bit of joy into our meals, reminding us that the simplest of ingredients can create the most delightful experiences.

Join me as I explore why this recipe is so adored and how, with just a few steps, you can bring a piece of my childhood—and perhaps your own—back to life.

Ingredients to Make Easy Chicken Piccata

When creating the Easy Chicken Piccata, the ingredients play a pivotal role in crafting its delightful flavor. The key players include chicken, lemon, and capers, each contributing to the dish’s unique profile. The harmony of these ingredients showcases how well they work together to elevate the overall experience.

• 2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise: The star ingredient, providing a tender base for the dish. Chicken breasts are packed with protein and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish.
• ¼ cup All-purpose flour for dredging: This helps create a lovely crust on the chicken, adding texture and helping to thicken the sauce.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Richness and depth are added with the butter, contributing to the sauce’s velvety texture.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a wonderful flavor and assists in cooking the chicken perfectly.
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced: Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish and gives it that signature piccata tang.
• ½ cup low sodium chicken broth: Used to create the sauce, adding moisture and depth of flavor.
• ¼ cup brined capers, drained: Briny notes from the capers are crucial for that authentic piccata flavor.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: A burst of color and freshness, parsley complements the dish beautifully.

How to Make Easy Chicken Piccata

Cooking the Easy Chicken Piccata is a joyful experience, filled with vibrant aromas and delicious flavors that come together quickly. Follow these steps closely to achieve a dish that’s sure to impress!

1. Begin by preparing your chicken breasts. Cut them in half lengthwise, creating thinner pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. Season both sides with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper generously.
2. Next, dredge each piece of chicken in all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This step is crucial, as it forms a lovely crust when cooked.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Listen for that delightful sizzle as the fat melts together, creating a perfect cooking medium.
4. Add two pieces of the coated chicken to the skillet. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes without moving them. This allows a golden crust to form. When the bottom is beautifully browned, flip them over and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
5. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you repeat the process with the remaining chicken, adding 1 more tablespoon of butter and olive oil to the pan.
6. With all the chicken cooked and set aside, it’s time to make the sauce. Begin by draining any excess oil from the skillet, leaving just a little behind for flavor. Add the fresh lemon juice, low sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, and drained capers to the pan.
7. Return the skillet to medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any brown bits. These bits are packed with flavor, so don’t skip this step!
8. Once boiling, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, stir in the remaining unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and emulsify into the sauce.
9. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, gently coating each piece with the sauce. Allow the chicken to warm through for a minute or two.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. This adds a touch of color and freshness, elevating your Easy Chicken Piccata to something truly special.

Substitutions and Tips

When making the Easy Chicken Piccata, it’s important to consider a few handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. Here are some valuable suggestions:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken piccata for up to three months. Just be sure to separate it from the sauce to maintain optimal texture.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of pasta or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the dish.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer a lighter version, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying.
• Garnish Options: Add a slice of lemon or extra capers on top for a beautiful presentation.

Serve This Easy Chicken Piccata With

To truly enjoy the flavors of the Easy Chicken Piccata, consider pairing it with these delicious options:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the zesty sauce beautifully.
• Steamed Asparagus: A fresh and crunchy side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for a lovely accompaniment.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!
• White Rice: A neutral base that lets the chicken’s flavors shine.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Chicken Piccata is a dish that beautifully blends simplicity and flavor, making it a staple for any home cook. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to create cherished memories with loved ones around the table. Don’t hesitate—make it tonight and enjoy every delicious bite!

Easy Chicken Piccata

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Chicken Piccata combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon sauce and briny capers. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Experience the explosion of flavors that make it a must-try tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces Skinless and Boneless Chicken Breasts Cut in half lengthwise.
• to taste Kosher Salt
• to taste Fresh Ground Black Pepper
• ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour For dredging.
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 cloves Garlic Finely minced.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
• ½ cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth
• ¼ cup Brined Capers Drained.
• ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Chopped.

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Cut chicken breast in half lengthwise, season with salt and pepper, and dredge in flour.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once sizzling, add two pieces of chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them for a golden crust.
3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until done. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken, using more butter and oil as needed.
4. Drain excess oil from the skillet, add lemon juice, chicken broth, garlic, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping up brown bits from the pan.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then stir in remaining butter until emulsified.
6. Return chicken to the pan, coat it in the sauce, and warm for 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken piccata for up to three months, separating from the sauce.
• Pairing: Serve with pasta or a salad for a delightful meal.
• Cooking Method: Consider grilling the chicken for a lighter option.
• Garnish Options: Add a slice of lemon or capers for presentation.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.