Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken cutlets in a bright, tangy lemon-caper sauce. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms everyday chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with just a handful of ingredients. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
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Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Serves
4 servings
Difficulty
easy
Ingredients
Ingredients
Techniques: butterflying chicken breasts, dredging, pan-frying, deglazing, making pan sauce
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or frying pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Meat mallet (optional)
Shallow dish for dredging
Tongs
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Instant-read thermometer (optional)
This classic Chicken Piccata comes together quickly once you start cooking, so it's helpful to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. The key to success is getting the chicken cutlets to an even thickness for consistent cooking and creating a balanced sauce that's tangy but not overwhelmingly sour.
For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water at the end of cooking. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Important Allergy Notice: While we strive to provide accurate ingredient information, please be aware that our recipes may contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish, and fish. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult your healthcare provider if you have any food allergies before preparing any recipe from this site.
