Name: Chicken Piccata Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup chicken broth; ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice; ¼ cup dry white wine (optional); ¼ cup capers, drained; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon slices, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, tender texture, and an irresistible tang, then you are going to adore this Chicken Piccata Recipe. This classic Italian-American favorite features succulent pan-seared chicken cutlets bathed in a luscious lemony butter sauce studded with briny capers. It strikes the perfect balance between bright citrus notes and savory richness, making it an easy yet elegant meal for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two raw chicken breasts placed side by side on crumpled white parchment paper in the center, lying on a white marbled surface. Around them are various ingredients: on the top left, a wooden pepper grinder, a clove of garlic, a small block of cheese, and a shallot. Near the chicken, there are small bowls with white salt and dried herbs on the upper right. Below the chicken, there is a glass mug filled with light yellow broth, a blue tube of anchovy paste, a small stone bowl filled with green capers, a glass of clear white wine, a metal measuring cup filled with flour, and two bright yellow lemons. Fresh green parsley leaves are at the lower left corner. At the top, a container of buttermilk and a pepper shaker complete the set. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken Piccata Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the citrusy brightness of fresh lemon juice to the delightful saltiness of capers, creating a harmonious sauce that complements the tender chicken perfectly.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thin cutlets cook quickly and stay tender throughout.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a light coating for a golden crust.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect medium for searing without overpowering.
3 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness to both the chicken and the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle aromatic warmth to the sauce.
½ cup chicken broth: Builds the base of the sauce with savory depth.
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice: Brings the vibrant citrus punch that defines piccata sauce.
¼ cup dry white wine (optional): Adds complexity and subtle acidity to the sauce.
¼ cup capers, drained: Provide a tangy, briny burst that enhances every bite.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with freshness and color.
Lemon slices, for garnish: Adds a pretty finishing touch and extra zing.

How to Make Chicken Piccata Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you end up with thin cutlets that cook evenly and quickly. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to bring out their natural flavor before moving on to the flour coating.

Step 2: Coat and Sear the Chicken

Lightly dredge each cutlet in all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This creates a delicate crust that locks in moisture while giving the chicken a slight golden color when seared. Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet, then cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned. Next, pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and the optional white wine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release all those delicious browned bits left from the chicken. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, which helps reduce and concentrate the flavors.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Return Chicken

Stir in the capers and the remaining two tablespoons of butter into the sauce. As the butter melts, it will slightly thicken the sauce and add a silky texture. Finally, nestle the chicken cutlets back into the pan and simmer everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the luscious sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Piccata Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the plated chicken for a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. Add a few lemon slices on the side to reinforce the zesty citrus theme and provide guests the option to squeeze fresh juice according to taste.

Side Dishes

Chicken Piccata Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can soak up its vibrant sauce. Think al dente pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic, fluffy steamed rice, or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a wholesome, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the chicken cutlets overlapping slightly on a large platter with the sauce poured generously over the top. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices artistically placed around the edges. Serve family-style to encourage sharing and add rustic charm to your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly!), store the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, offering a quick and satisfying meal later in the week.

Freezing

This Chicken Piccata Recipe freezes nicely if you want to make it ahead for convenience. Transfer cooled chicken with sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. You can add a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice to loosen the sauce and refresh the flavors. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken tough.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Chicken Piccata Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness for quick and even cooking.

Is white wine necessary in Chicken Piccata Recipe?

White wine adds a lovely depth and acidity to the sauce, but it is optional. You can substitute additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice if you prefer to omit alcohol.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a little longer to reduce it further for a thicker consistency. You can also whisk in a small amount of butter at the end to add silkiness and body.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.

What are good vegetarian alternatives to Chicken Piccata Recipe?

Portobello mushrooms or firm tofu slices can be used in place of chicken. The same lemon-caper sauce can be prepared to keep the bright, tangy flavor profile intact.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Piccata Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings elegance and freshness to your dinner table without any fuss. The combination of tender chicken and that zingy lemon-caper sauce is pure magic, and I promise every bite will leave you smiling. Give it a try soon, and you may find it becoming one of your new weeknight or special occasion favorites!

Chicken Piccata Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need