Classic Chicken Piccata

k engels

2 weeks ago

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.