I recently made the best chicken piccata recipe for dinner, and I have to say, it was a total hit! The chicken was tender, the lemon sauce was bright and flavorful, and the capers added a delightful tanginess. I served it with a side of angel hair pasta, and it felt like we were dining at a fancy restaurant.

If you’ve been meaning to try this classic recipe, you’re in for a treat—but if you’re craving something spicier, you might also enjoy these sweet and spicy gochujang chicken bowls. For now, though, it’s all about crafting the perfect chicken piccata.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Piccata

Here’s a simple list of ingredients to ensure your chicken piccata turns out beautifully. Each ingredient plays its part, so choose fresh and high-quality options when possible.

Chicken breasts (4, 6 ounces each) – Small boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best. For larger ones, slice and pound thin.
All-purpose flour (½ cup) – A light coating gives the chicken a golden crust.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon) – Freshly grated lemon zest adds a citrusy punch to the coating.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Helps sear the chicken for a crispy texture.
Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors.

Ingredients for the Sauce

Butter (¼ cup) – Adds richness and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
All-purpose flour (1 ½ tablespoons) – Helps thicken the sauce slightly.
Chicken broth (1 cup) – Forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
Fresh lemon juice (1 ½ tablespoons) – The star ingredient, delivering a lovely tang.
Dry white wine (½ cup) – Adds depth; if avoiding alcohol, simply use extra broth.
Capers (3 tablespoons) – These salty gems elevate the dish.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons) – A touch of freshness and perfect for garnish.
Shredded Parmesan (optional) – A light sprinkle over top can add a creamy finish.

Note: The above ingredients serve 4 people. Adjust quantities accordingly for more servings.

Variations for Chicken Piccata

Want to make this dish your own? Here are some tweaks you can make depending on your dietary preferences or available ingredients:

Dairy-Free – Replace butter with a quality vegan substitute like plant-based margarine.
Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.
Vegetarian – Swap the chicken for breaded tofu or mushrooms.
Flavor Boosters – Add minced garlic to the sauce or toss in a few artichoke hearts for a tiny twist.

For another show-stopping dish, give this marry me salmon recipe a try.

Cooking Time Breakdown

Time is always an important factor in planning meals. Here’s how long you’ll need for this recipe:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Equipment You Need

These basic tools will help you whip up chicken piccata effortlessly:

Cutting board – For preparing your chicken and other ingredients.
Meat tenderizer – To pound the chicken evenly for better cooking.
Skillet – The perfect tool for both browning and simmering.
Whisk – For creating a silky, lump-free sauce.
Tongs – Makes flipping and serving the chicken easier.

How to Make Chicken Piccata

Once you’ve got everything prepped, it’s time for the fun part! Below are the steps for creating this masterpiece from start to finish.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two layers of plastic wrap. Gently pound each breast to about ½-inch thickness using a meat tenderizer. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and retain a juicy texture.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

Combine flour, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Press each chicken breast into the mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess before cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the lemon juice, white wine (or extra broth), and capers. Simmer until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully heated through and the sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately over a bed of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are some tricks I’ve learned to make chicken piccata taste even better:

Use fresh lemons. Pre-squeezed juice won’t have the same brightness.
Add a light squeeze of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tang.
Always dredge the chicken just before frying; this keeps it crispy.
If you can’t find capers, finely chopped green olives make an excellent substitute.

How to Serve Chicken Piccata

Presentation matters! Here’s how to serve chicken piccata in style:

Serve with Pasta – Thin pasta like angel hair or linguine catches the sauce beautifully.
Pair with Veggies – Steamed asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach work well.
Add Fresh Garnishes – Sprinkle with parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color.

For more dinner inspiration, check out these amazing dinner recipes that pair well with chicken piccata.

Nutritional Information

Chicken piccata is surprisingly balanced. Here’s what you’ll get in one serving:

Calories: 530
Protein: 51g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fat: 25g

How to Store Chicken Piccata

Made too much? No problem! Follow these steps to store leftovers correctly:

Refrigerating – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Seal in a freezer-safe container for up to 4 months.
Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken piccata is a dish that’s hard to resist. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

Easy to make – You don’t need advanced cooking skills.
Versatile – Goes perfectly with pasta, bread, or veggies.
Restaurant vibes – Impress your guests with this elegant yet simple meal.
Customizable – Suitable for dietary preferences with slight adjustments.
Meal-friendly leftovers – The sauce stays flavorful even when reheated.

FAQs

Can I skip the wine in chicken piccata?

Absolutely! Extra chicken broth can replace the wine without compromising flavor.

What are capers, and can I leave them out?

Capers are small, tangy buds that add flavor. If you’re not a fan, try subbing with chopped green olives.

What side dishes work best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad are excellent choices.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can! Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Ben Carraoli