Looking for a zesty twist on a classic dish? This Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is just what you need. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.
The star of the show is the chicken breasts, which are pounded thin for quick cooking and tenderness. The flour gives them a light crust that holds up to the sauce. Butter and olive oil combine to create a rich base for sautéing the chicken, while the dry white wine adds depth and a hint of sophistication to the sauce. Lemon juice provides a refreshing tang, complemented by the savory undertones of chicken stock. Capers bring a briny, punchy element, and the fresh basil leaves add a fragrant finish. A sprinkle of salt and pepper brings everything together, and lemon slices for garnish give it a final touch of elegance.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side of angel hair pasta or a fresh, crisp salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted potatoes or steamed asparagus. A glass of the same dry white wine used in the cooking will complement the flavors perfectly.
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to about 1/2-inch thickness; this ensures quick, even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Next, dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a light crust that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Once the butter is bubbling, add the chicken breasts. You'll want to sauté them for about 3 minutes on each side, until they're golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside, keeping them warm.
In the same skillet, pour in the wine, lemon juice, and chicken stock. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these add incredible flavor. Let the mixture simmer until it's reduced by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the remaining butter, capers, and chopped basil. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over each piece. Let them cook together for another 2 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld the flavors. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of additional basil.
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