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Easy Crispy Chicken Piccata Recipe with Tangy Lemon Caper Sauce

easy crispy chicken piccata - featured image

A quick and easy chicken piccata recipe featuring crispy chicken breasts with a bright, tangy lemon caper sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), pounded thin
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for frying
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup (120 ml) low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Pour the flour onto a shallow plate. Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
  3. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside on a warm plate.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and melt. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Stir and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
  7. Return the chicken to the pan, spoon some sauce over, and warm gently for a minute.
  8. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before dredging to ensure a crispy crust. Cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. To thicken sauce, whisk in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water if needed. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken piccata, crispy chicken, lemon caper sauce, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meal