Go Back
Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a tangy lemon-butter sauce with capers. It’s bright, elegant, and full of flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple yet sophisticated date night meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into cutlets)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional, for garnish
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets. Place between plastic wrap and pound to even thickness if needed.
  • Dredge: In a shallow dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off excess.
  • Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  • Deglaze and build the sauce: In the same pan, add white wine (or extra broth) and scrape up the browned bits. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Finish the sauce: Lower heat to medium and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Cook for 2 more minutes until heated through.
  • Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve over pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat—just adjust cooking time.
  • Don’t skip the capers—they add a signature briny punch.
  • For a creamier version, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream before finishing the sauce.
  • Pair with angel hair pasta, sautéed spinach, or mashed potatoes
Keyword Chicken Piccata