Name: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); ¼ cup capers, drained; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes.
Bursting with fresh lemon flavor balanced by buttery richness.
Capers add a deliciously briny contrast to the tangy sauce.
Pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Elegant presentation, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (abo ut 2 lemons)
¼ cup capers, drained
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

directions

Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment and pound to ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the lemon sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and garlic, sautéing for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the pan to release browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add capers and finish: Stir in capers. Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Let simmer 2–3 minutes.
Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier version.
Substitute gluten-free flour to make the recipe gluten-free.
Swap capers for chopped green olives if you prefer a milder briny flavor.
Toss the sauce with cooked pasta before adding the chicken for a one-pan meal.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with chicken piccata?

It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans.

Can I omit the capers?

Yes, but they add a signature briny flavor. You can replace them with green olives if preferred.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best. Bottled juice often tastes harsher and less vibrant.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Pound the chicken evenly and avoid overcooking. A quick sear on each side is enough.

Can I make this without flour?

Yes, you can skip the flour dredge, but the sauce may not thicken as much. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour alternative.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of cream will create a creamy piccata variation, though it’s not traditional.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use fish instead of chicken?

Yes, piccata works well with fish like sole, tilapia, or salmon. Just adjust cooking times.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet and cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its tender chicken, zesty lemon sauce, and briny capers, it offers a perfect balance of bright and savory flavors. Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in just 30 minutes.