Mary KellyWhen diving into a dish like Lemon Chicken Piccata, it’s essential to pair it with the right accompaniments. You want to enhance those vibrant flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Here are five fantastic suggestions on what you can serve alongside this dish:
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the tangy flavors of chicken piccata beautifully. The buttery, smooth texture provides a perfect contrast to the sauce. To make these mashed potatoes, boil Yukon gold potatoes until fork-tender, mash them, and mix in butter, roasted garlic, cream, and a sprinkle of salt.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Colorful, roasted vegetables elevate any meal. Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until caramelized, lend a sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon.
3. Fresh Arugula Salad
A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette delivers a peppery bite to cut through the richness of the dish. Toss arugula with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pasta Aglio e Olio
For a classic Italian twist, consider serving the chicken with Pasta Aglio e Olio. Prepared simply with olive oil, minced garlic, and a touch of chili flakes, it’s a flavor-packed dish that won’t overwhelm the palate.
5. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a nutty texture that enhances your chicken piccata. The earthy flavor of the wild rice pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon sauce, making every bite a celebration of taste.
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Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the scent of fresh lemon wafting through your kitchen, and you’re about to whip up a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying. Enter Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata—a dish that perfectly balances savory and tangy notes.
It’s quick to prepare and holds a special place on many dinner tables. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was blown away by how simple ingredients like chicken, lemon, and capers could create such extraordinary flavor. It’s nothing short of magic.
What Is the Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe?
Lemon Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish that features chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, drenched in a bright sauce made with lemon juice, capers, and white wine.
Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks in part to the lemon’s freshness and the capers’ briny pop. This dish exemplifies Italian cooking’s ability to transform simple ingredients into something truly delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe
This easy recipe takes traditional flavors and puts them right at your fingertips. What makes this recipe so appealing? For starters, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
You won’t need to be a master chef to impress guests with this dish. After all, who wouldn’t love a meal that effectively combines tenderness with zesty brightness?
In addition, the dish is not overly heavy, allowing you to savor each bite without feeling weighed down. Plus, the bright, fresh flavors mean that this dish is not just for special occasions; it fits seamlessly into your everyday cooking routine.
Another highlight? Versatility. You can easily adjust this dish to accommodate your dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving a crowd or cooking for one, everyone will find something to love in this recipe.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe
Now let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the good stuff—the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this lemony delight:
2 garlic cloves, finely minced – For that aromatic flavor that brings everything together.
1 pound dried spaghetti noodles – A classic base for the dish.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – A touch of spice complements the lemon nicely.
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps everything from becoming too rich.
3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed – The superstar of the dish.
¼ cup dry white wine (optional) – Adds depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Gives the sauce a slight tang.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided – For richness and flavor.
½ cup heavy whipping cream – To create a creamy sauce.
¼ cup capers, rinsed and drained – A briny accent that elevates the dish.
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
½ cup plain all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken.
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley – Freshness and color add a professional touch.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally – The main protein source.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, grab your chicken breasts. Slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner. This allows for quicker cooking and helps absorb those tantalizing flavors.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
Take your flour and sprinkle it on a plate. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring each side is coated. This step helps create that delicious crust when seared.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add your chicken pieces. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a plate.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about a minute until fragrant—watch it, so it doesn’t burn! Next, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Add the Broth and Lemon
Now, add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the capers and let everything reduce for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Butter
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream. Add the remaining butter and mix until melted. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat each piece with the luscious sauce.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, then combine it with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat every strand.
Step 8: Serve
Plate the chicken piccata, drizzling extra sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for that pop of color.
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Don’t opt for bottled substitutes.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly or allow it to reduce more before adding cream.
Wine Choice: A crisp, dry white wine works best, but if you don’t have wine on hand, simply omit it and use additional broth.
Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness to cook uniformly.
Serving Temperature: Serve immediately for the best experience, as the sauce can thicken as it sits.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Here’s how to store your dish properly:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately from the chicken to maintain integrity. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to a month.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 500mg
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe?
Cooking is all about being creative! Here’s a list of alternatives you might consider if you’re looking to switch things up.
1. Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts
If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs will work beautifully. They tend to retain moisture better and provide a richer flavor.
2. Vegetable Stock Instead of Chicken Broth
For a vegetarian option, opt for vegetable stock. It will still provide depth to your sauce.
3. Zoodles for a Low-Carb Version
Use spiralized zucchini instead of pasta for a low-carb, gluten-free meal. It adds a refreshing twist!
4. Lemon Zest for Extra Flavor
Add lemon zest for an added punch of citrus flavor. It brightens the dish and enhances the lemony character.
5. Cashew Cream Instead of Heavy Cream
If you’d like a dairy-free version, try using cashew cream. Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth and use it in place of heavy cream.
Lemon Chicken Piccata
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First things first, grab your chicken breasts. Slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner. This allows for quicker cooking and helps absorb those tantalizing flavors.
- Take your flour and sprinkle it on a plate. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring each side is coated. This step helps create that delicious crust when seared.
- In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add your chicken pieces. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a plate.
- In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about a minute until fragrant—watch it, so it doesn’t burn! Next, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Now, add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the capers and let everything reduce for another 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream. Add the remaining butter and mix until melted. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat each piece with the luscious sauce.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, then combine it with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat every strand.
- Plate the chicken piccata, drizzling extra sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for that pop of color.
Nutrition
Notes
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly or allow it to reduce more before adding cream.
Wine Choice: A crisp, dry white wine works best, but if you don’t have wine on hand, simply omit it and use additional broth.
Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness to cook uniformly.
Serving Temperature: Serve immediately for the best experience, as the sauce can thicken as it sits.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare Lemon Chicken Piccata in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, just keep the pasta separate until serving. Reheat gently for the best quality.
2. What wine should I use in this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio usually works best. Choose one that you enjoy drinking!
3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve an even sear.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?
Certainly! Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and use certified gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
5. How can I adjust the heat level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Conversely, increase them for a spicier kick.
6. What if I don’t have capers?
If you don’t have capers, you can use chopped green olives for a similar briny taste, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Conclusion
Easy Lemon Chicken Piccata is more than a dish; it’s an experience that brings a touch of Italian zest to any table. With its straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients, it’s a recipe designed to fit into busy lives while still impressing. Every bite bursts with the freshness of lemon and the brininess of capers, making it truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will never disappoint. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Lemon Chicken Piccata. Happy cooking!
