A celebration of vibrant flavors, with its succulent, pan-fried chicken and a tangy sauce of lemon, capers, and a hint of wine. This dish is a delightful balance of acidity and richness, making it a favorite in Italian cuisine.
Chicken Piccata is a traditional Italian dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor. It involves chicken breasts that are pounded thin, dredged in flour, and pan-fried to golden perfection. The signature piccata sauce, made with lemon, butter, capers, and white wine, complements the chicken with a bold, tangy flavor.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations
- Flour Coating: For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
- Enhancing the Sauce: Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
- Additional Garnishes: Consider garnishing with slices of lemon or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra zest and flavor.
Wine Pairing
A crisp, acidic white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with Chicken Piccata, complementing its lemony caper sauce.
Chicken Piccata
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup white wine (optional)
Preparation Instructions
- Season and Dredge: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Pan-fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping up any brown bits from the pan for extra flavor. Reduce heat, and stir in remaining butter and white wine, continue cooking until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the pan and simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Suggested Sides
Chicken Piccata pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its tangy and savory flavors. Here are some recommended sides to create a well-rounded meal:
- Garlic Parmesan Risotto – A creamy risotto with a hint of garlic and Parmesan cheese offers a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the lemony sauce of the Chicken Piccata.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon makes a healthy and flavorful side that matches well with the dish’s brightness.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes – Tossed in olive oil, rosemary, and garlic, roasted potatoes provide a comforting and hearty side that balances the zesty chicken.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quickly sautéed with garlic and a dash of nutmeg, spinach adds a fresh and slightly earthy component to the meal.
- Angel Hair Pasta – Lightly tossed in olive oil or a buttery sauce, this pasta makes a simple yet elegant side, perfect for soaking up the delicious piccata sauce.
- Couscous with Lemon and Herbs – Couscous flavored with lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be a light, refreshing side that enhances the overall flavors of your meal.
- Garden Salad – A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory elements of the main dish.
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