Tasty Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a simple yet impressive dish. The lemon sauce adds just the right amount of brightness and tang, while the capers bring a subtle briny flavor that elevates the overall taste. The chicken remains tender and juicy, and the entire dish is packed with flavor without being heavy. It’s light, delicious, and can be served over pasta, rice, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)

• 2 tablespoons capers, drained

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:

• Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook more evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Dredge the chicken:

• Place the flour on a plate and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess.

3. Cook the chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the lemon sauce:

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Once the butter has melted, add the white wine (or chicken broth) and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.

• Stir in the fresh lemon juice and capers. Simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combine chicken with the sauce:

• Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in some of the flavors.

6. Serve:

• Transfer the chicken to serving plates and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.

7. Enjoy:

• Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors of your Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 people.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Serve the chicken piccata with sautéed spinach, asparagus, or zucchini to add more color and nutrition to the dish.

• Add butter and cream: For a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter and a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

• Chicken Piccata with olives: Add a handful of pitted Kalamata or green olives to the sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid. Stir the sauce occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave the chicken, but it may lose some of its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They will provide a slightly juicier and more flavorful result.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken. Be sure to check the labels of the broth and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?

If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. It may require a slightly longer cooking time depending on the thickness of the chicken.

4. Can I use lemon zest in the sauce?

Yes! Adding a bit of lemon zest will enhance the lemony flavor of the sauce. Just be sure not to add too much, as it can be quite strong.

5. Can I skip the white wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also use a splash of white wine vinegar for some acidity.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut the chicken at the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear.

7. Can I add more capers?

If you love the briny flavor of capers, feel free to add extra! Just be mindful that they can be quite salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

8. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat and add the cooked chicken when you’re ready to serve.

9. Can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce or use a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the chicken.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a simple, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, a tangy lemon sauce, and the perfect balance of seasonings, it’s an easy recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors of this classic Italian dish!

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