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Craving an elegant yet easy dinner? Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a Zesty Chicken Dish that pairs tender chicken breasts with a buttery, tangy lemon sauce bursting with capers and fresh parsley. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce, you’ll savor a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

I adore Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce because it’s a Zesty Chicken Dish that balances bright lemony notes with rich, buttery depth. The crispy chicken and briny capers create a delightful flavor explosion, making it feel gourmet yet simple enough for any night. This Zesty Chicken Dish is quick, versatile, and sure to impress family or guests with its vibrant taste and elegant presentation!

Ingredients for Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need for Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce (serves 4):

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
½ cup chicken broth
2 tbsp capers, drained
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish

Equipment

Large skillet
Tongs or spatula
Shallow dish for dredging
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Airtight container for storage

Ingredient Tips

Chicken Breasts: Pound to even thickness for uniform cooking; use thighs for a juicier alternative.
Flour: Swap with gluten-free flour for dietary needs; it still creates a crispy crust.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for vibrant flavor; avoid bottled for optimal taste.
Capers: Rinse if you prefer less saltiness; they add a briny pop.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness; substitute with basil for a twist.

Directions for Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Let’s whip up Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce!

Prep the Chicken

I season 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge each in ½ cup flour, shaking off excess for a light coating.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, I heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. I add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). I remove the chicken and set it aside.

Make the Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, I melt 3 tbsp butter, then add ¼ cup lemon juice and ½ cup chicken broth, stirring to combine. I bring the sauce to a simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Add Capers and Chicken

I stir in 2 tbsp capers, then return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce over the top. I cook for 1–2 minutes to let the chicken soak up the sauce.

Garnish and Serve

I remove the skillet from heat, garnish with 2 tbsp chopped parsley and lemon slices, and serve Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce immediately with extra sauce spooned over.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 15g carbs, 35g protein, 18g fat, 1g fiber

Variations

Try these twists on Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce:

Thigh Swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer Zesty Chicken Dish.
Herb Twist: Swap parsley for basil or thyme for a fresh, aromatic Zesty Chicken Dish.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or zucchini to the sauce for extra greens.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for a crispy, dietary-friendly coating.
Lighter Option: Reduce butter to 1 tbsp and replace broth with white wine for a lighter sauce.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ The Best Peach Sorbet for a light, summery meal finish.
Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus to complement the Zesty Chicken Dish.
Offer at a dinner party with a crisp white wine for an elegant touch.

Storage

I store leftover Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, I microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring to prevent drying out. For freezing, I store the chicken (without sauce) for up to 3 months and make fresh sauce when reheating.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce on a platter with lemon slices and parsley for a vibrant look.
Garnish: Add extra capers or a lemon wedge for a zesty flair.
Pairing: Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce.
Portion Size: One chicken breast per person for a satisfying main course.
Occasions: Ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or small gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their different thickness and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. It will still give the chicken a nice crust and work well with the sauce.

Can I freeze Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the chicken (without the sauce) for up to 3 months. Reheat it and make a fresh batch of the lemon sauce to serve with it.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but if you need to use bottled lemon juice, it will still work in a pinch.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check, or cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I add more vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, add veggies like sliced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce during the simmering step for a heartier dish.

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Conclusion

Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a dish that effortlessly combines bright flavors with rich, comforting textures. The tangy lemon sauce with the capers is a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers both taste and elegance in under 30 minutes. Try it today, share it with friends, pin it for later, and subscribe for more delicious, seasonal recipes!