Elevate your dinner: transform chicken breasts into piccata delights with our easy recipe from simply recipes

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Italy with this exquisite Chicken Piccata recipe, brought to you by Simply Recipes. This classic dish, with its tender chicken cutlets, tangy lemon sauce, and aromatic capers, is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Add the white wine to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Return the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Piccata

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and capers make a world of difference in this dish.
• Pound the chicken thin: This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly.
• Don’t overcook the sauce: The sauce should be slightly thickened but still have a bit of liquid.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Chicken piccata pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Variations on the Classic

• Add some spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use different citrus: Instead of lemons, try using limes or oranges for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms in the skillet before adding the chicken.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the chicken before serving.

The History of Chicken Piccata

Chicken piccata is believed to have originated in Northern Italy, in the region of Lombardy. The dish is thought to have been inspired by a similar dish called “piccata al limone,” which is a veal cutlet cooked in a lemon sauce. Over time, the veal was replaced with chicken, and the dish became known as “chicken piccata.”

Nutritional Information

One serving of chicken piccata (without sides) contains approximately:

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this Chicken Piccata recipe from Simply Recipes will guide you to culinary success. Its exquisite flavors and ease of preparation make it a dish that will become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Reheat the sauce and chicken before serving.

4. What are some other ways to serve chicken piccata?

Try serving it on top of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

5. Can I freeze chicken piccata?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken piccata for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.