Lemon Chicken Piccata

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, and that’s exactly how I feel about Lemon Chicken Piccata. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy dinners with friends and family where laughter and delicious food fill the air. The bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemons combined with tender, juicy chicken make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of sautéing chicken and tangy lemon wafting through my home had everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the first taste. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also lifts your spirits. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends, Lemon Chicken Piccata is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

Main Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Piccata

The ingredients used in Lemon Chicken Piccata are simple yet incredibly impactful. The key players include tender chicken breasts, zesty lemon juice, and capers, which together create a balanced and flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays a significant role, contributing to the dish’s delicious outcome while ensuring a wholesome meal.

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds): The star of this dish, these chicken breasts are tender and juicy, making them perfect for soaking up all those delightful flavors.
• Sea salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of the chicken, bringing all the ingredients together.
• 1/2 cup white rice flour or AP gluten-free flour: This gluten-free option creates a crispy coating on the chicken, essential for that classic piccata texture.
• Olive oil: Used for frying the chicken, adding a rich flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
• 4 tablespoons plant-based butter: This gives a creamy richness to the sauce without dairy, complementing the zesty lemon.
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice from 2 lemons: The key ingredient that gives Lemon Chicken Piccata its vibrant and tangy flavor.
• 2 cups chicken stock: This forms the base of the sauce, providing depth and richness.
• 1/4 cup capers (rinsed): These little briny gems add a salty punch and a unique flavor to the dish.
• 1 lemon (thinly sliced, seeds removed): Used for garnishing and enhancing the lemony flavor.
• 5 ounces baby spinach: Adding a pop of color and nutritional value, the spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce.
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped): This fresh herb adds a burst of color and flavor, rounding out the dish perfectly.

Step by Step Instructions for Lemon Chicken Piccata

Preparing Lemon Chicken Piccata is a straightforward process that yields mouthwatering results. Let’s walk through the steps together to create this delightful dish.

1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts on a clean work surface. Using your palm, gently press down on each breast to keep it stable while you slice it in half lengthwise. You should aim to create two thinner cutlets. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher to butterfly the breasts for you. Once you have your cutlets, you should have a total of four pieces.
2. Next, season the chicken cutlets generously with sea salt and pepper. This is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Once seasoned, set the cutlets aside for a moment.
3. In a shallow bowl, pour in the white rice flour or gluten-free flour. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour until fully coated. Make sure to shake off any excess flour, as too much can affect the browning process.
4. Now, heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add one tablespoon of plant-based butter, letting it melt into the oil.
5. Carefully place half of the floured chicken cutlets into the pan. Cook for about three minutes, or until a beautiful brown crust forms. Flip the cutlets over and cook for an additional two minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate.
6. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken cutlets, adding more olive oil and butter as necessary. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent any burnt flour debris from ruining your dish.
7. While the chicken is cooking, combine the lemon juice, chicken stock, and capers in a 2-cup measuring cup or bowl. This mixture will become the flavorful sauce that brings your Lemon Chicken Piccata to life.
8. Once all the chicken is cooked and resting, add the thinly sliced lemon directly into the same skillet. Sauté over medium-low heat for about two minutes until the lemon slices are lightly blistered. This step enhances the lemon flavor and adds a beautiful touch to your dish.
9. Next, toss in the baby spinach into the skillet and sauté for approximately two minutes until wilted. This adds color and a nutritious element to your dish. Season lightly with sea salt before removing it from the heat.
10. Now, pour the chicken stock lemon mixture back into the skillet, bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the pan. This step adds depth to your sauce.
11. Finish by adding the remaining two tablespoons of plant-based butter to the sauce and carefully return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about three to five minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt if needed.
12. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Tuck the sautéed spinach between the chicken cutlets and garnish with the blistered lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve immediately on its own, or alongside rice or your favorite gluten-free pasta for a complete meal.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to put your own spin on Lemon Chicken Piccata, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

• Add a Creamy Twist: For those who enjoy a creamier sauce, consider incorporating a splash of unsweetened coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative to enrich the flavor without dairy.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce can enhance the overall flavor profile and give it a spicy kick.
• Try Different Proteins: While chicken is traditional, you can easily substitute it with fish like salmon or even tofu for a plant-based version.
• Seasonal Veggies: Incorporating seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini in place of or alongside the spinach can change the dish’s dynamics while adding nutrition.
• Experiment with Herbs: Instead of just parsley, try adding other fresh herbs like basil or thyme to introduce new flavors.
• Serve with Different Sides: Instead of rice or pasta, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.

What to Serve Alongside Lemon Chicken Piccata

When it comes to serving Lemon Chicken Piccata, there are numerous delightful options to complement this flavorful dish. Here are some ideas to create a memorable meal:

• Fluffy Rice: Pairing Lemon Chicken Piccata with a serving of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice allows you to soak up all the delicious sauce, making for a satisfying combination.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, serving it over gluten-free pasta can elevate the dish while providing a comforting touch.
• Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, adding crunch and freshness to every bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can add color and nutrients, rounding out the meal beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent experience, serve some warm garlic bread on the side to complement the flavors of Lemon Chicken Piccata.
• Occasion-Focused: This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, elegant gatherings, or even holiday celebrations.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lemon Chicken Piccata is truly a dish that stands out for its bright flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a meal with family, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to try it; not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers a satisfying flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Bring this delightful dish to your table and enjoy the smiles it brings!

Lemon Chicken Piccata

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken Piccata is a zesty, flavorful dish that brings warmth to your table. With gluten-free and dairy-free options, it's the perfect easy weeknight dinner that will impress everyone. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1 ½ pounds, see note
• Sea salt
• 1/2 cup white rice flour or AP gluten-free flour
• Olive oil
• 4 tablespoons plant-based butter see note
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice from 2 lemons
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup capers rinsed
• 1 lemon thinly sliced (seeds removed)
• 5 ounces baby spinach
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan

Method

 

1. Place the chicken breasts on a clean work surface. Place your palm on top of the breast to anchor it to the cutting board and carefully slice the breast in half lengthwise (parallel to your hand through the center). Alternatively, you can ask the butcher to butterfly the breasts for you. You should have two thin cutlets of chicken. If they are still attached at one end (in the shape of a butterfly), sever it so you have 4 cutlets total (from the 2 breasts). Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Dredge the chicken breast cutlets until fully covered in flour and shake off any excess. Set the coated chicken aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium high flame, heat a thin layer of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 tablespoon of butter, and immediately arrange half the chicken in the pan. Cook for 3 minutes, or until a brown crust has formed. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove and transfer to a plate. Repeat with the additional chicken pieces, adding more oil and butter as needed and adjusting the heat if any flour debris starts to burn.
4. Meanwhile, combine the lemon juice, chicken stock, and capers in a 2-cup liquid measure or bowl.
5. When the chicken is finished, add the lemon slices directly to the pan and sauté over medium-low heat until lightly blistered, 2 minutes. Remove to the plate with the chicken.
6. Add the spinach to the pan and sauté until wilted, 2 minutes. Season lightly with salt and remove to the same plate.
7. Pour the chicken stock lemon mixture into the pan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, scraping up any brown bits the spinach didn’t dredge up. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce and carefully return the gluten-free chicken piccata to the pan. Simmer until the dairy-free piccata sauce is thickened slightly, but not fully evaporated, 3 to 5 minutes. Taste for seasoning and add more salt as needed.
8. Off the heat, tuck the spinach in between the chicken cutlets and garnish with the frizzled lemon slices and fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a complete one pan meal, or alongside rice or your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken piccata for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with gluten-free pasta or rice for a complete meal.
• Ingredient Quality: Always use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor, especially the lemons.
• Cooking Technique: Make sure to manage the temperature while cooking to get that perfect golden crust on the chicken.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.