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Crispy Chicken Piccata Recipe Easy Homemade Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce

crispy chicken piccata - featured image

A quick and easy crispy chicken piccata with a zesty lemon caper sauce that delivers a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 ounces each), pounded to even thickness
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 fresh lemons, juiced and zested
  • ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about ½ inch thick. Set aside.
  2. In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  3. Lightly coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chicken breasts carefully and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside on a warm plate.
  6. Lower heat to medium and add minced garlic to the pan; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest; stir to scrape up browned bits from the pan.
  8. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in capers and remaining 1 tablespoon butter.
  9. Return chicken breasts to the pan, spoon sauce over them, and warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Shake off excess flour for a lighter crust. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning. Sauté garlic briefly to prevent bitterness. Simmer sauce to desired thickness; add broth or water if too thick. Use fresh lemons for best flavor. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives. For gluten-free, use almond or gluten-free flour blends.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken piccata, crispy chicken, lemon caper sauce, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian chicken, gluten-free option, dairy-free option