Easy baked chicken piccata recipe: a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes!

If you’re yearning for a delectable dish that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the tender succulence of chicken, then our baked chicken piccata recipe easy is the culinary masterpiece you’ve been seeking. This recipe, designed with simplicity in mind, allows home cooks of all skill levels to create a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of their own kitchens.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Add white wine to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Add Broth and Lemon: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Add Capers and Parsley: Stir in capers and parsley. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Bake: Transfer chicken and sauce to a baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, or until chicken is golden brown and sauce has thickened.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional lemon slices and parsley. Serve over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

The Secret to Tender Chicken:

The key to achieving tender and juicy chicken lies in not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven immediately to prevent drying out.

Lemon and Capers: A Flavorful Pair

The combination of lemon and capers creates a delightful balance of tangy and salty flavors that perfectly complements the chicken. Capers add a briny touch that enhances the overall complexity of the dish.

Variations:

• Chicken Piccata with Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet before adding the chicken.
• Chicken Piccata with Artichokes: Add canned or jarred artichoke hearts to the sauce for an extra savory dimension.
• Chicken Piccata with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and umami.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Reduce the sauce: The sauce should be slightly thickened but not too thick.
• Serve immediately: Chicken piccata is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

The Perfect Pairing:

Chicken piccata pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it over pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Alternatives to White Wine:

If you don’t have dry white wine on hand, you can substitute it with water, chicken broth, or a splash of lemon juice.

A Culinary Adventure for All:

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, our baked chicken piccata recipe easy will guide you through the process with ease. This versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will take slightly longer to cook.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: The chicken can be browned and the sauce made ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator and bake before serving.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the sauce and cook until thickened.