There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy lemon chicken piccata, especially when that first bite transports you to an Italian trattoria. I discovered this dish on a particularly rainy day when I longed for a warm, soothing meal that was both satisfying and simple to prepare. The vibrant zing of fresh lemons perfectly complements the silky sauce, while the capers add a delightful briny kick, elevating the chicken to pure culinary bliss.
Whether you’re shaking off the weekday blues or impressing guests at a cozy dinner party, this recipe seamlessly combines ease with elegance. The best part? You can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time, allowing you to spend more moments gathering with friends or family. So, let’s put aside those fast-food cravings and whip up something homemade that’s sure to become a weeknight staple!
Why is Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata so beloved?
Simplicity at its core: Crafted with accessible ingredients, this dish ensures that even novice home cooks can impress.
Zesty, Rich Flavor: The vibrant lemon and rich cream create a deliciously balanced sauce that elevates the tender chicken.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether paired with hot pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, you can tailor this meal to suit your taste.
Time-Saving Option: In less than 30 minutes, you can conquer those fast-food cravings with this homemade gem.
Feel free to explore other delightful chicken recipes on our blog that will become your new favorites!
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a scrumptious dish that’s sure to delight.
For the Chicken
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – A little seasoning goes a long way to enhance the chicken’s natural taste.
For the Coating
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – This will give your chicken a lovely crispness when cooked.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs – Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 large egg – Helps the coating adhere beautifully to the chicken.
• 1 Tablespoon water – Added to the egg for a smoother mixture.
For the Sauce
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 2 Tablespoons butter – For a silky finish, butter creates a luscious texture.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – The base of the sauce; low-sodium helps control the saltiness.
• 2 lemons – Fresh juice and zest brighten up the dish and complement the creamy sauce.
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream – Gives the sauce its creamy consistency, critical for our Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata.
• ¼ cup capers – For a delightful tangy burst that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
To Serve
• Hot cooked pasta or mashed potatoes – Choose your favorite side to soak up that divine sauce!
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
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Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thin pieces. Sprinkle them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
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Prepare the coating by beating the egg in a shallow bowl with 1 tablespoon of water. In separate shallow bowls, place the flour and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken piece first in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally cover with breadcrumbs for a crispy outer layer.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, juice from both lemons, and capers. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Let the sauce bubble gently for about 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors before returning the chicken to the pan.
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Serve the chicken with generous spoonfuls of sauce over either hot cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata?
To elevate your dining experience, consider these delicious accompaniments that bring out the best in your meal.
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Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for any extra sauce, crunchy on the outside and soft inside, it’s a dinner must-have.
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Steamed Asparagus: Bright green spears add a lovely snap and element of freshness that beautifully balances the richness of the chicken.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy lemon chicken piccata.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy, caramelized edges provide a comforting depth that pairs wonderfully with the dish’s bright lemon flavors.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: This fluffy side dish provides a subtle flavor that enhances the chicken while soaking up the delightful sauce.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine makes a perfect pairing, enhancing the dish’s citrus notes while cutting through the creaminess.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat will cleanse your palate and leave a bright finish after the satisfying main course.
These pairings ensure a memorable meal that dazzles the taste buds and warms the heart!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the breaded chicken up to 24 hours in advance by coating it in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. Simply store the uncooked chicken in the refrigerator, covered tightly to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out. The sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just prepare it without the chicken and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and add the cooked chicken, allowing it to simmer until heated through. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to impress with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
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Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving creamy lemon chicken piccata out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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Fridge: Store leftover chicken piccata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing for the best texture.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata Variations
There’s so much joy in making this recipe your own by adjusting flavors and ingredients to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a light and crispy coating.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a rich yet dairy-free sauce. It still delivers on the creaminess!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist. Just a sprinkle can elevate the flavor profile remarkably.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the sauce to ignite some heat. This adds a delightful contrast to the creamy lemon flavor!
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some fresh mushrooms along with the chicken for added depth and texture. They soak up the sauce beautifully and complement the dish perfectly.
- Zesty Lemon Amplifier: Increase the lemon juice and add some lemon zest to the sauce for a more pronounced citrus flavor. This brightens the dish and tantalizes your taste buds!
- Capers Swap: Experiment with green olives instead of capers for a different briny taste. They bring a unique twist while maintaining a savory note.
- Protein Variation: Swap the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a fabulous seafood or plant-based version of this classic dish. Both options offer a delightful texture!
Expert Tips for Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
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Chicken Thickness: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking; alternatively, pound them to about 1/2 inch thick.
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Coating Technique: Properly coat the chicken layers by ensuring each is adequately floured before the egg wash. This prevents the breadcrumbs from sliding off during cooking.
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Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired creaminess for the perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata.
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Caper Balance: Taste your sauce before serving; capers can vary in saltiness, so adjust seasoning accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that complements the creamy richness of the chicken piccata.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and have a slight sheen. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or a dull appearance, which might indicate that it’s not fresh. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
How do I store leftover creamy lemon chicken piccata?
Very easily! Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will be good for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive that luscious sauce.
Can you freeze creamy lemon chicken piccata?
Absolutely! For the best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Be sure to let the sauce cool completely before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on low, stirring in a bit of broth or cream for that creamy consistency.
How can I troubleshoot if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your sauce has thickened too much, simply add a little chicken broth, stirring gradually until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add a splash of heavy cream for richness. Keep tasting as you go to ensure the flavor stays balanced!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make gluten-free creamy lemon chicken piccata, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour or rice flour works beautifully, and there are plenty of gluten-free breadcrumb options available nowadays. Just ensure all other ingredients, like the chicken broth, are gluten-free as well!
Are there any dietary considerations for capers in this recipe?
Very much! Capers are generally safe for most diets, but some people may have allergies to them. If you’re cooking for someone with such an allergy, simply leave them out or replace them with chopped olives for a similar briny flavor. Always taste the sauce for seasoning, as capers can add saltiness!
Mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thin pieces. Sprinkle them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Prepare the coating by beating the egg in a shallow bowl with 1 tablespoon of water. In separate shallow bowls, place the flour and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken piece first in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally cover with breadcrumbs for a crispy outer layer.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, juice from both lemons, and capers. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Let the sauce bubble gently for about 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors before returning the chicken to the pan.
- Serve the chicken with generous spoonfuls of sauce over either hot cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully.