Quick Chicken Piccata

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Quick Chicken Piccata
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic on a solid, level surface.

  2. Use the smooth side of a meat mallet to firmly pound the chicken breasts until they are 1/2-inch thick.

  3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

  4. Lightly dredge the chicken breasts in flour and shake off any excess.

  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  6. Place the chicken in the skillet and reduce the heat to medium.

  7. Cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, approximately 5 minutes per side.

  8. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.

  9. Cook the capers in the remaining oil, lightly smashing them to release brine, until they are warmed through, which should take about 30 seconds.

  10. Pour the white wine into the skillet and bring it to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits of food off the bottom of the pan.

  11. Cook the wine until it is reduced by half, approximately 2 minutes.

  12. Stir in the lemon juice, water, and butter into the reduced wine mixture.

  13. Continuously cook and stir the mixture until it forms a thick sauce, which should take about 2 minutes.

  14. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the parsley.

  15. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they are heated through, which

About this recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner option? Look no further than quick chicken piccata! This classic Italian dish is bursting with flavor and can be prepared in no time. With tender chicken, tangy lemon, and a savory sauce, it's a dish that is sure to impress. Let's dive in and discover how to make this delightful meal.

Preparing the Chicken

The first step in making quick chicken piccata is preparing the chicken. You'll want to start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook quickly and evenly. To ensure tender and juicy chicken, pound the breasts to an even thickness. This will help them cook more evenly and prevent dryness.

Coating the Chicken

Next, it's time to coat the chicken. Create a simple breading mixture by combining flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. This will give the chicken a crispy and flavorful outer layer when cooked.

Sautéing the Chicken

Now it's time to sauté the chicken. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

The sauce is what gives chicken piccata its signature flavor. In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt some butter and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Thickening the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the pan. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water in a separate bowl, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Serving the Dish

Once the sauce is ready, it's time to bring everything together. Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, turning each piece to coat it evenly. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a minute or two to ensure it is heated through. Finally, transfer the chicken piccata to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley.

Now that you know how to make quick chicken piccata, it's time to answer some common questions about this delicious dish.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly as thighs tend to take a little longer to cook.

. What can I serve with chicken piccata?

Chicken piccata pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

. Can I make a vegetarian version of piccata?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors will still be delicious!

. Can I freeze chicken piccata?

While it is possible to freeze chicken piccata, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh.

. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be sure to check the ingredient list and choose a high-quality brand.

. How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and it should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

. Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time?

While it is possible to make the sauce ahead of time, it is best to cook the chicken just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! If you need to feed a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the additional chicken.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy your quick chicken piccata and savor every bite.

References:
- https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/chicken-piccata-recipe-1941043
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/223042/chicken-piccata/

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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