The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Picatta is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a celebration. Did you know that this classic Italian-American recipe has been a favorite in households for decades, thanks to its bright, zesty flavors and quick preparation? Imagine tender, golden chicken breasts smothered in a tangy lemon-caper sauce, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh asparagus—sounds irresistible, right? Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Chicken Picatta recipe is sure to impress. Keep reading to discover how to create this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Picatta
My First Chicken Picatta Memory
I’ll never forget the first time I made Chicken Picatta for my family. It was a busy weeknight, and I wanted to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The moment the tangy lemon-caper sauce hit the pan, the aroma filled the house, and everyone gathered around, curious and hungry. Seeing their faces light up after the first bite was priceless—it instantly became a family favorite. For me, this dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of how food can bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a quiet dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken Picatta always feels like a celebration.
Irresistible Chicken Picatta Recipe in Just 35 Minutes
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCooking time
20
minutesCalories per serving
320
kcalThis Chicken Picatta recipe is a quick, flavorful, and restaurant-quality dish perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a tangy lemon-caper sauce that’s bright, zesty, and utterly delicious. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to ½-inch thickness
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
2 tbsp capers, drained
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
- Season and Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Roll each breast of chicken in the flour mixture, then shake off any extra. This coating will give the chicken a golden, crispy exterior.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts. Make sure to cook for four to five minutes on each side, or until the edges are golden and the centre reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After taking the chicken out of the pan, transfer it to a dish.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. BAfter bringing the mixture to a simmer, allow it to decrease slightly for three to four minutes. Stir in the capers.
- Mix and Serve: Put the chicken back in the skillet and cover it with the sauce. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Storage: You may keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days if you keep them sealed.
- Variations: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative. You can also use turkey cutlets or even cauliflower steaks for a vegetarian twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a light pasta like angel hair for a complete meal.
- Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving size 1 chicken breast (150g)
Calories 320
| Total Fat 15g | 19% |
|---|---|
| Saturated Fat 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 95mg | 32% |
| Sodium 480mg | 21% |
| Total Carbohydrate 12g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars 2g | |
| Includes Added Sugars 0g | 0% |
| Protein 35g |
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% |
|---|---|
| Calcium 30mg | 2% |
| Iron 1.5mg | 8% |
| Potassium 400mg | 9% |
FAQ
1. What is Chicken Picatta?
Chicken Picatta is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts topped with a tangy lemon-caper sauce. It’s known for its bright, zesty flavors and quick preparation, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
2. Can I make Chicken Picatta without capers?
Yes, you can! While capers add a unique briny flavor, you can substitute them with chopped green olives or even omit them entirely. The dish will still have a delicious lemony tang.
3. Is Chicken Picatta gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses flour to coat the chicken, but you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour, cornstarch, or a gluten-free flour blend.
4. What sides go well with Chicken Picatta?
Chicken Picatta pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta like angel hair. These sides complement the dish’s bright flavors and create a balanced meal.
5. Can I prepare Chicken Picatta ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. After cooking, remove the chicken from the sauce and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet and combine before serving to maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
6. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Remaining food can be kept in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the chicken’s crispiness and the sauce’s consistency.
