Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that brings together the tanginess of fresh lemons, the richness of cream, and the savory goodness of chicken, all in a single pan. This dish not only pleases the palate but also offers a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 430
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 590mg
Why Make This Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata makes for a spectacular dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. The vibrant flavors of lemon and capers create a lively sauce that beautifully complements the tender chicken. It’s a one-pan wonder that not only saves time on clean-up but allows for layering flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup capers
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring they are well-coated. Dredge them in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This step will provide a lovely golden crust when cooking.
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Step 2: Sautéing
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
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Step 3: Mixing
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This adds extra flavor to your sauce!
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Step 4: Cooking
Stir in the heavy cream and capers, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cover it, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
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Step 5: Finishing
Finally, stir in the remaining butter, which adds richness to the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, rice, or sautéed vegetables. You can serve it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up that delicious lemony sauce!
How to Store Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
Leftover Chicken Piccata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough to achieve that golden crust on the chicken.
- For a zesty kick, add some lemon zest to the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce.
- Capers can be substituted with green olives if desired.
- Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Chicken Piccata: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce.
- Spicy Piccata: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mushroom Piccata: Add sautéed mushrooms for a heartier version.
- Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with chickpea patties and replace heavy cream with coconut cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use skin-on chicken?
Yes, but remove the skin beforehand for a healthier version. Skinless chicken tends to absorb flavors better. - What can I substitute for capers?
Green olives can work well as an alternative, although they will change the flavor slightly. - Can I use a different type of cream?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will alter the richness. - Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend to dredge the chicken. - What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a light arugula salad are excellent options.
Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that impresses with its rich flavors and quick preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to make your meal memorable. So gather your ingredients, whip up this bright and creamy dish, and enjoy every delicious bite! Happy cooking!
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Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
- Author: hannah-belssy
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful dish that brings together the tanginess of fresh lemons, the richness of cream, and the savory goodness of chicken, all in a single pan.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup capers
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and dredge them in flour.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream and capers, bring to a simmer, and return chicken to the skillet, covering and simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in remaining butter and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or sautéed vegetables. Don’t forget to serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 27g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g