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Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata features tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts lightly dredged in flour and sautéed until golden. The dish is finished with a bright, tangy lemon and caper sauce that coats the chicken, creating a glossy and flavorful presentation. Its vibrant flavors and inviting appearance make it a perfect quick yet elegant meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for sauce and finishing
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth for deglazing
  • 1/4 cup capers rinsed
  • 1 piece lemon zest and juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Shallow dish
  • Tongs
  • Lemon zester

Method
 

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a mallet or rolling pin until about 1/2 inch thick; this helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Set aside.
  2. In a shallow dish, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess, creating a light, even coating.
  3. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant. Carefully lay the chicken breasts in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd.
  4. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Once done, transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
  5. In the same skillet, add the wine or broth to deglaze, scraping up the browned bits with a spatula. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced and fragrant.
  6. Add the rinsed capers to the skillet, along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir gently and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become glossy.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for another minute to reheat and coat the chicken in the flavorful sauce.
  8. Remove from heat, garnish with additional lemon slices or parsley if desired, and serve immediately. The chicken should be juicy, tender, and coated in a bright, glossy sauce.