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Easy Chicken Piccata in 30 Minutes

Easy Chicken Piccata

Prepare this chicken piccata by cooking chicken breasts until golden, then simmering them in a lemon-caper sauce. This dish is ready in 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for busy evenings. Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal that balances tangy and savory flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 4 chicken breasts boneless, skinless, pounded to even thickness
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup capers drained
  • 2 tbsp parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, indicating it's hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute, allowing it to cook and lose its raw taste.
  • Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. The mixture should thicken slightly, resembling a smooth sauce. This step ensures a lump-free sauce with a consistent texture.
  • Add the lemon juice and capers to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. The aroma of lemon should be prominent, signaling the sauce's readiness.
  • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step allows the flavors to meld.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the chicken to gently simmer in the sauce over low heat for an additional 5 minutes. This slow cooking process helps the chicken to stay tender and moist, while it absorbs the sauce's rich aroma and flavors, enhancing the overall dish.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts. Ensure it reaches 165 F (74 C) to confirm they are cooked safely. If the temperature is lower, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking periodically to avoid overcooking.
  • After the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown, transfer them from the skillet to a serving platter. Let them rest for about five minutes to retain their juices while you complete the sauce preparation in the skillet.
  • If the sauce becomes overly thick, gradually incorporate a small amount of chicken broth, stirring continuously over medium heat. This will help achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust the thickness to your preference, ensuring the sauce coats the back of a spoon without being too runny or too dense.
  • Before serving, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal with its bright green hue but also introduces a gentle herbal aroma. The parsley's subtle flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the savory elements, ensuring a well-rounded dish presentation.

Notes

Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. If using a different protein, adjust cooking times accordingly. The sauce's acidity can be balanced with a pinch of sugar if desired.