| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 20g | 6g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 27g | 1.2g |
Why I Fell in Love with Chicken Piccata with Lemon, Garlic, and Capers
There’s something incredibly captivating about the simple yet elegant flavors of Chicken Piccata with Lemon, Garlic, and Capers. Growing up in Texas, I experienced a culinary fusion of vibrant Tex-Mex flavors and traditional Southern recipes. This dish, however, brings a twist of Mediterranean flair that complements my love for bold flavors perfectly. From the very first bite, the bright tang of fresh lemon juice intertwined with the salty, briny notes of capers and the rich aroma of garlic, I was hooked.
A Symphony of Ingredients
When I first encountered this recipe, its balance of flavors caught my attention. The combination of tender, lightly-floured chicken breasts, seared to perfection in a mix of butter and olive oil, with the zingy citrus base from the lemon juice, creates a meal that’s both refreshing and comforting. Adding minced garlic and capers into the mix elevates the dish, creating a beautiful harmony that dances on your taste buds. The aromatic parsley adds a fresh, herbal note that ties everything together seamlessly.
### Health Benefits Galore
One of the reasons I wholeheartedly recommend Chicken Piccata with Lemon, Garlic, and Capers is the health benefits packed into every bite. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, while olive oil boasts healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health. Lemons, rich in vitamin C, not only enhance the immune system but also aid in digestion and provide an anti-inflammatory boost. Capers, tiny as they are, are loaded with antioxidants and add an unexpected nutritional punch to the dish.
Perfect Pairings
This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with a simple arugula salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which complements the zesty flavors of the Chicken Piccata. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or herbed couscous. For those with a penchant for pasta, this dish could easily be served atop a bed of angel hair or spaghetti, allowing the luscious sauce to coat the noodles in a lip-smacking finish. It’s similar to other Mediterranean-inspired recipes like Veal Piccata or even Shrimp Scampi, but with a unique twist that stands out.
Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Chicken Piccata with Lemon, Garlic, and Capers will undoubtedly impress your guests. Its exquisite blend of flavors and textures makes it an instant favorite in any kitchen. Remember to garnish with optional lemon slices for that extra pop of color and zest!
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Method
Step One
Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step Two
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Step Three
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. When the oil and butter start to sizzle, add 3 chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts, using the rest of the olive oil and butter.
Step Four
Once all the chicken is cooked and set aside, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Step Five
Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
Step Six
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Step Seven
Transfer the chicken piccata to a serving platter. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional lemon slices.
Step Eight
Serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors of lemon, garlic, and capers in each bite.
