Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers

Name: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup capers, rinsed; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers because it brings such brightness to the table. The tangy lemon and the savory capers create a delightful contrast against the tender chicken breast. I enjoy whipping this up on busy weeknights as it comes together in under 30 minutes! The light sauce is perfect for drizzling over a bed of pasta or sautéed vegetables, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:25:08.157Z

Making Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers holds a special place in my heart. I vividly remember the first time I tried this dish at a quaint little restaurant in Italy. The balance of flavors was phenomenal, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. I discovered that using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled made a significant difference in brightness.

While preparing this recipe, I learned that the key to a beautifully cooked chicken breast lies in pounding it to an even thickness. It allows for even cooking and ensures the chicken remains juicy. I generally serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to elevate the presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy lemon flavor that perfectly complements the chicken
Savory capers add a delightful saltiness
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Perfecting Your Chicken

To achieve the ideal texture for your chicken piccata, ensure that the chicken breasts are flattened evenly. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker areas cook through. A meat mallet or even a rolling pin works well for this task. Aim for a thickness of about ½ inch for optimal cooking time of 3-4 minutes per side at medium-high heat.

When seasoning, don't be shy with the salt and pepper. These enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and create a delicious foundation for the sauce. If you're following a lower-sodium diet, you can reduce the added salt but consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder in the flour to elevate the flavor without too much salt.

Beyond the Basics: The Sauce Magic

The sauce is where the magic truly happens in chicken piccata. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial; it provides a vibrant acidity that balances the richness of the butter and olive oil. The capers contribute a briny, savory kick that complements the dish beautifully. Make sure to rinse the capers to release some of their saltiness, otherwise, the dish may end up too salty.

While simmering the sauce, don't rush—allow it to reduce for a couple of minutes. This concentration of flavors is key to achieving that glossy, luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken. If the sauce feels too thin after simmering, a quick fix is to add a tablespoon of flour whisked in with a bit of liquid, or simply let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Piccata

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup capers, rinsed
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful dish that is both simple and elegant.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off the excess.

Cook the chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and reduce slightly.

Combine and serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another minute to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve your Chicken Piccata with your choice of sides for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the sauce right before simmering. This will enhance the overall taste wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Piccata serves wonderfully over a bed of spaghetti or with a side of crusty bread, allowing diners to soak up every bit of the garlicky sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus. This adds color to your plate and incorporates healthy greens, creating a balanced meal.

If you want to elevate the dish, consider garnishing with thinly sliced lemon wedges or an extra sprinkle of capers before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also prepares your guests for that bright flavor they’re about to experience.

Variations and Substitutions

While traditional Chicken Piccata uses chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with thinly sliced chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They are also more forgiving and less prone to drying out during cooking, making them a great choice for busy cooks. Moreover, if you prefer a gluten-free option, swap out the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a dedicated gluten-free flour blend.

For a fun twist, consider adding white wine to the sauce along with the broth and lemon juice for more depth and richness. Just remember to let it simmer to burn off some of the alcohol, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without being overwhelming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe and can add more flavor.

→ What should I serve with Chicken Piccata?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.