This Easy Chicken Piccata is a bright, zesty dish featuring tender chicken in a lemony sauce with capers. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for any weeknight dinner!
I love making this dish because it feels fancy without much fuss. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of tangy goodness that makes the chicken simply irresistible? 🍋
Serve it with some pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You’ll feel like a chef without even breaking a sweat in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well, adding a bit more flavor. Just adjust your cooking time as dark meat takes slightly longer.
Capers: These add a tangy kick. If you don’t have capers, chopped green olives can be a good substitute, offering a similar briny flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do in a pinch, but I really recommend sticking with fresh for the best taste!
Butter & Olive Oil: Using a mix of both helps achieve a rich flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute with a plant-based butter or simply use more olive oil.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken right can be tricky. Here are my tips to ensure it’s juicy and not dry:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If the pan’s crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sear.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture.
How to Make Easy Chicken Piccata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup capers, rinsed and drained
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. That includes around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, dredge each piece in flour, making sure to shake off any extra flour. This will help create a nice crust when cooking!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, and rinsed capers. Bring everything to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits add great flavor!
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help it thicken slightly, creating a lovely sauce to coat the chicken.
5. Return the Chicken:
Now, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Let it cook in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes. This way, the chicken will soak up some of that delicious sauce, making it even better!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Keep stirring until the butter is melted and fully mixed into the sauce.
7. Serve Up:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the chicken on plates, spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy your delightful Chicken Piccata!
## FAQ for Easy Chicken Piccata
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will be even more flavorful. Just make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), as they may take a minute or two longer to cook than chicken breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this Chicken Piccata gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may differ slightly!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Cook it as directed and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove and just add the browned chicken to warm through before serving.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to ensure it stays juicy!
