Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Introduction

Transport your taste buds to Italy with this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce. This elegant yet simple dish features tender chicken breasts in a bright, tangy lemon sauce enriched with butter and Parmesan. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this classic recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Flavorful

The tangy lemon sauce, balanced by the richness of butter and Parmesan, elevates this dish to perfection.

Quick and Elegant

Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.

Versatile Pairings

Serve it over pasta, alongside mashed potatoes, or with steamed vegetables for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
Pinch of black pepper
3 tsp olive oil

For the Lemon Sauce

3 garlic cloves, minced
6 tbsp white wine (or chicken broth)
5 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
⅛ tsp hot pepper sauce
2 tbsp butter
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound until they are ¼-inch thick for even cooking.
Season and dredge: In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil: Warm 3 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken: Add the dredged chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Set aside: Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in 6 tbsp white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
Add flavorings: Stir in 5 tbsp lemon juice, ⅛ tsp hot pepper sauce, and ¼ cup chopped parsley. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Incorporate butter: Reduce the heat to low and swirl in 2 tbsp butter until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Combine chicken and sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the lemon sauce over them. Let them simmer for 1 minute to heat through.
Add Parmesan: Sprinkle ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and let it melt slightly for added richness.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the Chicken Piccata with the lemon sauce drizzled generously over the top.
Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant finish.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce with:

Pasta: Angel hair or linguine tossed with olive oil or butter.
Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or carrots for a fresh and colorful side.
Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy base to soak up the lemon sauce.

Helpful Tips

Pound the Chicken Evenly

Ensure all pieces are the same thickness to cook evenly and remain tender.

Deglaze for Flavor

Scraping up the browned bits while deglazing adds depth to the sauce.

Adjust the Sauce Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, simmer for an extra minute to reduce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer.

What can I use instead of white wine?

Chicken broth is an excellent substitute that maintains the sauce’s depth of flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the sauce’s texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

The chicken and sauce can be made a few hours ahead. Reheat gently and combine just before serving.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a timeless Italian classic that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The tender chicken, zesty sauce, and touch of Parmesan make it a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Bring the flavors of Italy to your table with this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce. Simple, flavorful, and versatile, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress with its bright, tangy sauce and tender chicken. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to make!