Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Chicken Piccata Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 10 reviews

Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful parmesan and flour crust, pan-seared to golden perfection and served with a tangy lemon-caper sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe balances rich, savory, and bright citrus flavors, making it an elegant yet simple meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Preparation

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • ¼ cup arrowroot flour (or other flour)
  • ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Sauce

  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons capers (drained)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner pieces, ensuring they cook evenly and quickly.
  2. Coat the chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine arrowroot flour, finely grated parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
  3. Cook the chicken: Heat the extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the coated chicken pieces for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  4. Make the sauce: To the same skillet, add the dry white wine and minced garlic. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the liquid reduces by about half. Then stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, capers, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to simmer again.
  5. Add the chicken back: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through and well-coated.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the roughly chopped fresh parsley over the chicken piccata just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

  • Arrowroot flour is a great gluten-free alternative for dredging; regular all-purpose flour can also be used.
  • Dry white wine contributes authentic flavor, but chicken broth is a suitable substitute if preferred or to avoid alcohol.
  • Ensure chicken breasts are sliced thinly for even cooking and tender results.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor—bottled lemon juice may alter taste.
  • This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American