Indulge in Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata Delightfully Easy

Recipe By:
Melisa Egan
Updated:

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, tangy sauce that dances between creamy and zesty, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite. The moment you take a whiff of this delightful dish, you’ll be transported to an Italian trattoria, where the sun shines bright and the aroma of garlic wafts through the air.

Perhaps it reminds you of family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the clinking of glasses, and this dish steals the show. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration with friends, Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is your go-to recipe for elevating any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata combines ease of preparation with bold flavors that impress family and friends alike.
  • Its beautiful presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece on your dinner table.
  • Enjoy versatility as it pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even sautéed vegetables.
  • Plus, the creamy lemon sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they cook evenly and are perfect for absorbing all that flavorful sauce.

  • All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while also thickening the sauce later.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken; don’t skimp!

  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it adds richness and depth to the flavor profile.

  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that perfectly complements lemon.

For the Sauce:

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides that perfect tanginess; bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it.

  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding depth to your sauce.

  • Heavy Cream: This is what makes your sauce creamy and dreamy, so don’t try to substitute it unless you’re feeling adventurous!

  • Capers: These little green nuggets add a burst of briny flavor that balances the creaminess beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then dust each piece lightly with flour, shaking off any excess—no one likes a floury mess!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm up olive oil until shimmering. Add chicken breasts in batches (if necessary) and cook for about five minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover them loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean!), toss in minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should start smelling divine at this point—don’t worry if you’re tempted to dance!

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chicken broth. Scrape up those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of the pan—this adds depth! Allow it to simmer for three minutes before whisking in heavy cream until combined.

Step 5: Finish with Capers

Stir in capers into the luscious sauce and bring it back up to a simmer. Taste it—if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself wanting to dive right in!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return those beautifully seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Let them bask in that creamy lemon goodness for another five minutes on low heat.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Pair with pasta or crusty bread to soak up every last drop! Enjoy your culinary triumph!

You Must Know

  • This amazing creamy lemon chicken piccata offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, prepare the pasta and whip up the creamy lemon sauce simultaneously for a seamless flow in your cooking process.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil to elevate the flavor profile of your creamy lemon chicken piccata.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to maintain the creaminess of the sauce without curdling.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to develop rich flavors.
  • Lastly, taste as you go—seasoning is key!

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of my cousin’s wedding where I first made creamy lemon chicken piccata. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a superstar chef!

FAQs :

What is Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata?

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and tangy lemon sauce. The dish often includes capers for added flavor and cream to create a luscious texture. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, showcasing a balance of savory and zesty flavors.

How do I serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata?

Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata over a bed of pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish not only looks impressive but also offers a burst of flavor that will delight your guests.

Can I make Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding extra cream or broth if necessary to maintain its creamy texture.

What variations can I try with Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata?

Feel free to experiment with variations of Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata. You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even fish for a seafood twist. Additionally, add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic touch. Adjust the level of creaminess by using less cream or replacing it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Conclusion for Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata :

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata combines tender chicken with a bright and zesty lemon sauce, creating an unforgettable dish. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. With options for customization, you can easily adjust flavors to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful meal that balances creaminess with tanginess, leaving everyone asking for seconds!

Print

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a mouthwatering dish featuring tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, tangy lemon sauce enhanced by briny capers. This easy-to-make recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With vibrant flavors and a creamy texture, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp capers

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper; dust lightly with flour.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add lemon juice and chicken broth; simmer for 3 minutes while scraping the pan's bottom.
  5. Whisk in heavy cream and stir in capers; bring back to a simmer.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the sauce for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. For variety, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu, and add herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating