Go Back

Chicken Piccata

Tender chicken cutlets in a bright lemon-caper sauce with butter and white wine, perfect for elegant dinners and weeknight meals.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1.5-2 pounds
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter divided
For the Sauce
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 0.25 cup capers drained
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • lemon slices for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Meat mallet
  • Shallow dish
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to 1/2 inch even thickness using a meat mallet.
  2. Combine flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow dish.
  3. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter, allowing butter to melt and foam.
  4. Dredge chicken breasts in seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess. Place in hot skillet.
  5. Cook chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to plate and tent with foil.
  6. Pour white wine into same skillet, scraping up browned bits with wooden spoon.
  7. Add chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  8. Stir in capers and remaining 4 tablespoons butter, swirling pan until butter is incorporated and sauce is glossy.
  9. Return chicken to pan, spooning sauce over top. Simmer 1-2 minutes.
  10. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use chicken breasts of similar size and pound to even thickness. Fresh lemon juice is essential for authentic flavor. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with steamed vegetables. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.