Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce: A Bright & Flavorful Classic

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If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick and elegant, this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is the perfect choice. With tender pan-seared chicken, a zesty lemon butter sauce, and the briny pop of capers, this dish delivers bold flavors in under 30 minutes. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Tangy & Savory Sauce – The rich butter, fresh lemon, and capers create a perfect balance.
✔️ Quick & Easy – A gourmet dish ready in just 30 minutes.
✔️ Healthy & Light – Uses lean boneless chicken breast and simple ingredients.
✔️ Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon slices for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

  1. Place the flour in a shallow dish.
  2. Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the floured chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F / 74°C).
  3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, remaining butter, and capers, letting the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon sauce over the top.
  2. Let the chicken warm in the sauce for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The lightly floured chicken creates a golden crust that absorbs the bright, buttery sauce, while the capers add depth and balance. Cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making this dish both simple and delicious.

Variations to Try

✔️ Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes for heat.
✔️ Garlic Infusion – Stir in minced garlic for extra depth.
✔️ Creamy Version – Add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
✔️ Herb Blend – Mix in thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a fresh twist.
✔️ Pork or Fish Alternative – Try with pork chops or white fish instead of chicken.

Tips for the Best Chicken Piccata

🔹 Pound Chicken Evenly – Ensures even cooking.
🔹 Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Provides the best flavor.
🔹 Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Gives the chicken a perfect golden crust.
🔹 Adjust Sauce Thickness – Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add extra broth to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

🍝 With Pasta – Serve over angel hair or fettuccine for a classic pairing.
🥔 With Potatoes – Enjoy alongside mashed or roasted potatoes.
🥗 With Greens – Pair with a light salad for a fresh contrast.
🍷 With Wine – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings bright, fresh flavors to any meal. Whether served over pasta or alongside vegetables, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress.

So why not try it tonight? Enjoy restaurant-quality chicken piccata in the comfort of your home!

👉 Have you made this recipe? Let us know in the comments!

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