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Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata: Best Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe

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Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish that perfectly balances bright lemon, briny capers, and a silky, buttery sauce with tender, lightly floured chicken cutlets. It is a weeknight favorite that feels elegant enough for guests, yet comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe is your definitive guide to mastering that signature tangy-savory profile at home.

  • Total Time: 25
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness)

½ cup All-purpose flour

½ tsp Salt

¼ tsp Freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp Olive oil

4 tbsp Unsalted butter, divided

½ cup Dry white wine (or chicken broth)

¼ cup Fresh lemon juice

1 tsp Lemon zest

2 tbsp Capers, drained

½ cup Low-sodium chicken broth

2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep: Pound chicken breasts to an even ¼-inch thickness. Pat dry.

2. Dredge: Whisk flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, shaking off excess.

3. Sear: Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet. Cook chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and keep warm.

4. Sauce: Add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet. Deglaze with wine/broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in lemon juice, zest, capers, and chicken broth; simmer for 2-3 minutes.

5. Finish: Whisk in remaining 2 tbsp butter until glossy. Return chicken to pan to coat. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Pro-Tips:

• Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry edges.

• Whisk in the final tablespoon of butter off the heat to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.

• Reserve a splash of lemon juice to add at the very end for an extra-bright finish.

Variations:

• Creamy Piccata: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the very end for a richer sauce.

• Herb-Infused: Add a teaspoon of fresh thyme or oregano to the sauce.

• Protein Swap: Use veal scallopini or pork tenderloin medallions instead of chicken.

  • Author: Anna Lovae
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Pan-Sear
  • Cuisine: Italian-American