Best Chicken Piccata

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Bright, zesty, and satisfyingly savory, Chicken Piccata is an Italian-American classic that never goes out of style. With golden pan-fried chicken breasts bathed in a buttery lemon sauce and topped with briny capers, this dish strikes a balance between simplicity and sophistication. It makes a stunning weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party centerpiece.

The magic of Chicken Piccata lies in its vibrant sauce—tangy lemon, rich chicken broth, and smooth butter come together in just the right proportions. The capers add a salty burst, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings freshness to each bite. Whether served over pasta or with roasted veggies, this recipe always impresses with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Piccata

• Fast and Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe delivers gourmet flavor in record time.
• Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.
• Customizable: Serve it over angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or a veggie medley.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Works for both weeknights and special dinners.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking, get your tools lined up for a smooth experience:

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing the chicken evenly and building that silky sauce right in the same pan.
• Tongs or Fish Spatula: Helps flip the chicken cleanly without breaking the crispy crust.
• Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Pounding the chicken ensures even thickness for fast, even cooking.
• Citrus Juicer: Makes extracting lemon juice quick and mess-free.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the sauce until it emulsifies beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Piccata

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish—tender, juicy, and lean.
• All-Purpose Flour: Lightly coats the chicken for a golden crust and helps thicken the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Olive Oil & Butter: A combination that adds depth and richness while frying.
• Garlic: Brings a warm, aromatic base to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Builds the body of the sauce with a savory backbone.
• Fresh Lemons (juice + slices): Provides that signature citrus brightness.
• Capers: Briny, tangy, and essential to authentic piccata flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and color at the end.

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How To Make the Chicken Piccata

Step 1: Flatten and Season the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Dredge and Sear

Lightly dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, add a bit more butter and the garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits.

Step 4: Add the Capers and Return Chicken

Stir in the capers. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon slices. Serve hot over your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables.

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Serving & Storing This Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it with roasted asparagus or a fresh arugula salad.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce texture may change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness and avoid overcooking—both help keep it tender.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes! Boneless thighs work well, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they take longer to cook through.

Are capers necessary?

They’re traditional and add a nice briny contrast, but you can substitute with chopped green olives if needed.

What’s the best pasta to serve with Chicken Piccata?

Angel hair, linguine, or even orzo works great to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce components ahead, but it’s best cooked fresh for the crisp texture.

Is Chicken Piccata gluten-free?

Not as written—but you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

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Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you love this Chicken Piccata, check out these other flavorful meals from the Kitchen by Kate collection:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a grab-and-go twist.
• Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce when you’re craving a creamy, earthy plate.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders if you love that zesty lemon combo.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for cozy, comforting bites.
• Bang Bang Chicken Recipe when you’re in the mood for something spicy and crispy.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra lemony? Try a wine splash in the sauce?

I love seeing your creations and twists on the classics. Ask questions or share your variations below—let’s inspire each other!

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