Name: Best Chicken Piccata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise or pounded thin); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 1 lemon, sliced into rounds; 3 tablespoons capers, drained; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Golden, pan-seared chicken breasts meet a luscious lemon butter sauce dotted with briny capers in this irresistible Chicken Piccata. It’s a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it actually comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties.

This classic Italian-American favorite is both bright and savory, with the tangy lemon balancing the richness of the sauce and the crispy chicken. Pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Piccata

Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Flavor Explosion: Bright lemon, buttery sauce, and sharp capers create a bold contrast.
Crowd Pleaser: A comforting yet elegant dish that always impresses.
Versatile Pairings: Perfect with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Piccata?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. They cook quickly and can be easily sliced or pounded into even cutlets for uniform cooking. If you’re a fan of darker meat, boneless chicken thighs also work but may take a bit longer to cook through. The key is a thin, even piece that can sear quickly and soak up all that delicious lemony sauce.

Ingredients for the Chicken Piccata

Each ingredient in this Chicken Piccata plays a vital role in flavor and texture:

Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish. Thinly sliced or pounded for even cooking and better sauce absorption.
Flour: Lightly coats the chicken to help create a golden crust when pan-seared.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances every bite.
Olive Oil & Butter: For browning the chicken and building that rich, silky sauce.
Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic layer to the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base and balances the lemon.
Lemon Juice & Slices: Bring the signature tang and brightness.
Capers: Deliver salty, briny bursts that define piccata.
Parsley: Fresh and herby garnish to finish things off.

How To Make the Chicken Piccata

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts horizontally or pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour.

Step 2: Sear Until Golden

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and a bit of butter. Cook chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.

Step 4: Add Lemon & Capers

Stir in lemon juice, lemon slices, and capers. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Finish with a swirl of butter and chopped parsley.

Serving and Storing Chicken Piccata

This Chicken Piccata serves 4 people generously. It’s best enjoyed hot from the pan, with a side that soaks up the lemony sauce like pasta or mashed potatoes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the chicken juicy.

What to Serve With Chicken Piccata?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A perfect bed to catch every drop of that sauce.

Garlic Butter Pasta

Simple noodles tossed in butter and garlic make a subtle pairing.

Steamed Asparagus

Its earthiness and crunch contrast the rich, bright flavors.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds nuttiness and pairs well with lemony dishes.

Fresh Arugula Salad

A peppery bite to lighten up the plate.

Crusty Bread

To mop up all that extra sauce.

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Keeps the citrus vibe going in a more filling form.

Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you’re craving more bold and comforting chicken recipes, try these next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra garlic or go heavy on the lemon? Did you serve it with pasta or go full mashed potatoes?

I love hearing how you put your own twist on my recipes. Questions are always welcome too—let’s make dinner even better, together.

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