If you’ve ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug, then Traditional Chicken Piccata is your answer. This Italian classic combines tender chicken with a tangy, buttery sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special meal, it's a timeless favorite that's both simple and satisfying.
The star of the show is the chicken breasts, which are sliced thin to ensure even cooking and a tender bite. The all-purpose flour is used for dredging, giving the chicken a light crust that soaks up the delicious sauce. Olive oil helps to brown the chicken beautifully while adding richness. A mix of chicken broth and fresh lemon juice forms the base of the sauce, offering a savory and tangy flavor profile. Capers bring a zesty, briny note that complements the lemon perfectly. Unsalted butter enriches the sauce, giving it a silky finish, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
This Chicken Piccata pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light, lemony risotto. For a healthier option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. A chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish's zesty notes perfectly.
Start by slicing each of your chicken breasts in half horizontally. This step is key to achieving those thin, tender cutlets that cook quickly and evenly. Once sliced, season the chicken on both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
Next, dredge each cutlet in all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This will give your chicken a lovely light crust once cooked. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, place the floured chicken cutlets in the skillet. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Don’t forget to scrape up those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan — they add so much flavor! Add the capers and let the mixture simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, just until it reduces slightly.
Now, stir in the unsalted butter until it melts and emulsifies with the sauce. This is what gives the piccata its signature silkiness. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over the top. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to ensure the flavors meld perfectly. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for that extra touch of freshness.
Share