Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 520
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 750mg
Why Make This Easy Quick Chicken Piccata
Easy Quick Chicken Piccata is a wonderful dish that perfectly balances the flavors of tart lemon, briny capers, and buttery chicken. It captures the essence of Italian cuisine while being incredibly simple to prepare. This dish not only looks elegant on the plate but also fills your home with enticing aromas, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In just 25 minutes, you can treat your family or guests to a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Easy Quick Chicken Piccata
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup flour, for dredging
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Then, dredge them in flour, shaking off the excess. This step adds a nice, crispy coating to the chicken when cooked.
Step 2: Sautéing
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Mixing
In the same skillet, add the butter along with the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance your sauce.
Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the capers, then return the chicken to the skillet. Let everything cook together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through completely. The sauce should thicken slightly, creating a luscious coating for your chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving!
How to Serve Easy Quick Chicken Piccata
Serve this Easy Quick Chicken Piccata over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside al dente pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. A generous wedge of lemon on the side will allow diners to add an extra burst of citrus flavor if they desire.
How to Store Easy Quick Chicken Piccata
To store leftover chicken piccata, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Quick Chicken Piccata
- For an even crispier coating, you can dip the chicken in an egg wash before dredging in flour.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden crust.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the broth.
- Don’t skip the step of scraping the pan! Those browned bits are full of flavor and make the sauce irresistible.
- For a fun twist, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for additional flavor.
Delicious Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try these variations:
- Mushroom Piccata: Add sliced mushrooms in step 3 for an earthy flavor.
- Vegetable Piccata: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian dish.
- Spicy Piccata: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the chicken by seasoning and dredging it in flour beforehand, but it’s best to cook it fresh to maintain the crispy texture. -
What if I don’t have capers?
If you don’t have capers, you can substitute them with chopped olives for a different but still savory touch. -
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. -
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free flour blend to dredge the chicken, making this dish gluten-free. -
How can I make the sauce thicker?
For a thicker sauce, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion
Easy Quick Chicken Piccata is a fantastic recipe to add to your weeknight dinner rotation. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit for both family meals and entertaining guests. With simple ingredients and uncomplicated steps, you’ll find it not only delicious but also incredibly rewarding to make. So grab your apron, and enjoy bringing this delightful dish to life in your kitchen! Happy cooking!
