How to Make a Delicious Italian Chicken Piccata for Dinner
If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a delightful and flavorful dish, Italian Chicken Piccata is a fantastic choice. This classic recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon caper sauce, making it a perfect option for dinner. In this article, you will learn how to make a delicious Italian Chicken Piccata that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by flattening the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness using a meat mallet. This helps in even cooking and tenderizes the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
In a shallow dish, place the flour and dredge each chicken breast in the flour to coat evenly. Shake off any excess flour. This will help create a beautiful golden crust when cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts in batches. Do not overcrowd the skillet, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate that flavor. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the lemon juice and capers. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce, stirring until it melts and creates a glossy finish. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Step 6: Serve
To serve your Italian Chicken Piccata, transfer the chicken breasts to plates and spoon the lemon caper sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it over a bed of pasta, rice, or alongside a vibrant salad. The zesty flavors of Chicken Piccata also complement roasted vegetables or a creamy risotto beautifully.
Conclusion
Italian Chicken Piccata is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a dinner that's sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones for a memorable evening filled with flavor!