Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers

Name: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup capers, rinsed; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Chicken Piccata with Lemon Capers because it brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the rich taste of chicken in such a delightful way. This recipe is quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a special occasion. The sauce, with its tanginess and the added crunch from capers, elevates the dish to something truly special. I always serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal that's both satisfying and refreshing.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:31:15.423Z

When I first attempted to make Chicken Piccata, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful the dish turned out. The key to perfecting this recipe lies in ensuring that the chicken is tender and juicy, which I achieve by pounding the breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This not only helps with even cooking but also prevents the chicken from drying out.

As I continue to perfect my version, I always remind myself to keep an eye on the sauce. Cooking the capers briefly in the lemon juice allows them to infuse their briny flavor seamlessly into the dish. The balance of acidity and savoriness is just magical!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Quick preparation makes it a perfect weeknight dinner
Satisfying sauce that pairs beautifully with many sides

      

Mastering the Chicken

To achieve the perfect texture for your chicken breasts, it's crucial to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This not only ensures even cooking but also helps to tenderize the meat. If you find the process cumbersome, I recommend placing the chicken between plastic wrap before pounding; it minimizes mess and helps keep the juices in. Also, be sure to season generously with salt and pepper, as this enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

When dredging the chicken in flour, don't skip shaking off the excess. A light dusting will help create a delicate crust without overwhelming the dish. This step also aids in the browning process during cooking, ensuring that the chicken develops those beautiful golden edges. Remember, the temperature of your skillet should be moderate enough to allow the chicken to cook through without burning the flour coating.

Sauce Sensations

The sauce is where the magic happens in Chicken Piccata. Using fresh lemon juice adds a brightness that complements the chicken beautifully, while the capers introduce a delightful briny note. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan thoroughly after adding the lemon juice; these browned bits carry immense flavor and depth to your sauce. This step not only elevates the taste but also provides a beautiful visual element as the sauce becomes glossy and rich.

For a creamier sauce, you can blend in a splash of heavy cream just before serving, which creates a luxurious finish. If you're looking for a low-sodium option, consider using homemade chicken broth or vegetable broth to control the salt content while still enhancing the dish's flavor. Remember, the balance of acidity from the lemon and the saltiness from the capers is key, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This dish shines when served over creamy mashed potatoes or al dente pasta, as they absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully. Alternatively, for a lighter option, a fresh mixed green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette complements the savory notes of the chicken while adding a refreshing crunch. I often drizzle a bit of the leftover sauce over the greens for an extra burst of flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Freezing is also an option, but I recommend storing the chicken and sauce separately to maintain the best texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal results.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Chicken Piccata:

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup capers, rinsed
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare Chicken Piccata:

Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper on both sides. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in the chicken broth and capers, cooking for about 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 3 minutes.

Finish Off the Dish

Add the remaining butter to the sauce, stirring until melted. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Don’t forget to serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant flavors while the dish is warm!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after adding the broth. It enhances the acidity and complements the lemon beautifully.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing high-quality chicken breasts is vital for success in this recipe. Opt for fresh, free-range or organic chicken if available, as they tend to have better flavor and texture. While this recipe calls for boneless and skinless breasts for convenience, you could use bone-in pieces for added flavor; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

The role of capers cannot be overstated; they add a unique tangy burst that cuts through the richness of the butter and olive oil. If capers aren't available, consider using green olives as a substitute; they won't provide the same sharpness, but they will still add a saline quality that enhances the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn't browning properly, make sure that your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil isn't shimmering, it may need a few extra minutes to heat up. Avoid overcrowding the skillet because this can lower the temperature, leading to steaming rather than browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve that desirable golden crust.

In case the sauce turns out too salty, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. Alternatively, you can add a splash more chicken broth to dilute it without losing the overall taste. Always do a taste test before serving to catch any imbalances early on, ensuring that your Chicken Piccata is as delicious as possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will add even more flavor and juiciness.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Piccata?

It's delicious with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. Mashed potatoes are also a great match!

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.

→ What if I don't have capers?

If you don't have capers, try using green olives for a similar briny flavor, or simply omit them.