Indulge in tender chicken piccata: effortless crock pot recipe for succulent flavors
What To Know
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Searing the chicken before adding it to the crock pot will give it a golden brown exterior and enhance the flavor.
- For a Mediterranean twist, add a can of drained and quartered artichoke hearts to the crock pot.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Chicken Piccata without breaking a sweat. Our foolproof crock pot recipe will guide you through the effortless creation of this Italian-inspired masterpiece. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty crock pot, you’ll be savoring this delectable dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Add Aromatics to Crock Pot: Add the onion and garlic to the crock pot. Cook on low for 5 minutes, or until softened.
4. Pour in Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Add Chicken and Lemon Juice: Nestle the chicken breasts in the liquid. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Add Capers and Parsley: Stir in the capers and parsley. Cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Piccata
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This will ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked through, but not dry. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Sear the chicken if desired: Searing the chicken before adding it to the crock pot will give it a golden brown exterior and enhance the flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice will brighten the flavor of the dish.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Chicken Piccata pairs well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Variations
- Add artichoke hearts: For a Mediterranean twist, add a can of drained and quartered artichoke hearts to the crock pot.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Add a splash of heavy cream: For a richer sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 chicken breast):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Conclusion
With our easy-to-follow crock pot recipe, you can now enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Piccata without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and prepare to savor this culinary masterpiece.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will take slightly longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.
Q: What should I serve with Chicken Piccata?
A: Chicken Piccata pairs well with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.