Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce! This Italian-inspired dish features tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a tangy, buttery lemon sauce. Pair it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Light and Flavorful: The lemon sauce adds a fresh and zesty taste.
- Versatile Pairings: Goes well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
For the Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons dry white wine or chicken broth
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Dredge the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Coat each chicken breast, shaking off excess flour.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits for added flavor.
- Add Lemon and Herbs: Stir in the lemon juice, hot pepper sauce, and parsley. Simmer until slightly reduced.
- Finish with Butter: Lower the heat and swirl in butter for a rich, velvety sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce alongside:
- Buttery Linguine: The sauce pairs beautifully with pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add a pop of color.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Pro Tips
- For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before dredging.
- Make It Creamy: Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
- No Wine? No Problem! Chicken broth works as an excellent substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
Conclusion
This Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is the perfect combination of tangy, buttery, and savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results every time.