Elevate your dinner game: try our easy chicken piccata recipe with parmesan cheese bliss

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our tantalizing chicken piccata recipe with parmesan cheese, a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. This classic Italian dish combines tender chicken breasts, a zesty lemon-caper sauce, and a crispy parmesan crust that creates an unforgettable symphony of flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Piccata Sauce:

• 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
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Parmesan Crust:

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Create the Parmesan Crust: In a shallow bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip the floured chicken breasts into the parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
4. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Piccata Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the white wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, capers, and parsley to the skillet. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the piccata sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the chicken piccata to serving plates and garnish with grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Enhance Your Culinary Skills:

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Piccata:

• Pound the Chicken Thin: This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures a crispy crust.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: It provides a bright and tangy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Simmer it just until it thickens to avoid a watery or bitter sauce.
• Serve with a Variety of Sides: Consider roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a side salad to complement the chicken piccata.

Variations to Explore:

• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and umami.
• Use White Wine Vinegar: Substitute lemon juice with white wine vinegar for a slightly more acidic flavor profile.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the dredging and bread crumbs for the crust.

A Culinary Journey: The History of Chicken Piccata

Chicken piccata is said to have originated in Italy during the 19th century. It is believed that the dish was inspired by the classic Italian dish, veal piccata. The use of chicken instead of veal became popular in the United States, where it became a staple of Italian-American cuisine.

Health Benefits of Chicken Piccata

While chicken piccata is not a low-calorie dish, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Vitamins: The lemon juice and parsley provide vitamins C and A, important for immune function and eye health.
• Iron: Chicken is a good source of iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

The Perfect Pairing: Wine Suggestions for Chicken Piccata

Enhance your dining experience by pairing your chicken piccata with a complementary wine:

• Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp white wine with citrus notes that will complement the lemon sauce.
• Sauvignon Blanc: A refreshing and herbaceous white wine that will balance the richness of the dish.
• Chardonnay: A full-bodied white wine with buttery flavors that will pair well with the parmesan crust.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken piccata up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have capers?
A: You can substitute chopped olives or brine-cured lemon peel for capers.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the crust?
A: Yes, you can use any hard cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken piccata?
A: Store leftover chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken piccata?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken piccata for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.