Easy Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce – A Classic Italian Recipe

Servings: 2

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for a richer flavor)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally into thinner pieces. Pound gently with a meat mallet for even thickness.
2. Mix flour, salt, and pepper on a shallow plate. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.

2. Sear the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Lemon Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Stir in chicken broth or white wine, lemon juice, and capers. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.

4. Combine and Serve:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat. Simmer for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
2. Transfer the chicken to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley and optional lemon slices.

Cooking Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamier texture.
• If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, whisk 1 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tsp of water and stir it into the simmering sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: ~26g
• Fat: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fiber: ~1g

Would you like me to create a grocery list or include any side dish ideas like roasted vegetables or pasta? 😊