Once you’ve tried this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce, you’ll discover a dish that perfectly balances tangy and delicate flavors. This recipe is ideal for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. The standout qualities of this dish include its golden-brown chicken, a light and zesty lemon sauce, and the delightful touch of parmesan and parsley that elevate the overall flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan creates a deliciously tangy sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant presentation make it a great choice for entertaining guests.
- Health-Conscious Option: Low in calories and packed with protein, it’s a great addition to a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Shallow dishes
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick Skillet: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while ensuring even cooking of the chicken.
- Shallow Dishes: Ideal for coating the chicken evenly with the flour and egg mixtures.
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness for the chicken, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 8 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
- 2 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth, divided
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
For Flavoring
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
For Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Cooking
- 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
How to Make Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten chicken to 1/4-in. thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the egg substitute, 2 tablespoons of wine, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot pepper sauce.
- In another shallow dish, combine the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, and salt.
- Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture first, then dip it in the egg mixture before coating it again in flour.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, brown four pieces of chicken in 1-1/2 teaspoons of olive oil for about 3–5 minutes on each side or until juices run clear.
- Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and keep warm. Drain drippings from the pan.
- Repeat this process with the remaining chicken and oil until all are cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce
- In the same skillet used for cooking chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add in the remaining wine and lemon juice; bring to a boil.
- Boil uncovered until sauce reduces by one-fourth; drizzle over warm chicken before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce!
How to Serve Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Serving Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is an art that enhances its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your guests.
With a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes pairs well with the tangy lemon sauce.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the sharpness of the lemon in the piccata.
Over Pasta
- Angel Hair Pasta: Light and delicate, it soaks up the lemon sauce beautifully.
- Fettuccine: This thicker pasta provides a hearty base for the chicken and sauce.
With Sautéed Vegetables
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb option that adds a fresh crunch.
- Seasonal Veggies: Sautéed asparagus or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover lemon sauce.
- Baguette Slices: Serve warm for a rustic touch to your meal.
How to Perfect Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
To achieve a perfect Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go, especially when adding salt or pepper.
- Let Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain juices for a more tender bite.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Piccata can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideal options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a comforting contrast to the dish.
- Risotto: A creamy risotto absorbs the flavors of the lemon sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they add a nice crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious side that’s packed with flavor from herbs and vegetables.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple, healthy choice that complements the dish’s richness.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices provides a neutral base for enjoying the piccata’s flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the Flattening: Not flattening the chicken can result in uneven cooking. Always pound the chicken to 1/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Monitor closely and remove when juices run clear for perfect tenderness.
- Neglecting the Sauce Reduction: Skipping sauce reduction leads to a watery flavor. Allow the sauce to boil until reduced by a fourth for a more concentrated taste.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise flavor. Always use fresh lemon juice and quality Parmesan cheese for the best results.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoned chicken lacks flavor. Don’t forget to season each layer, especially the flour mixture, for a delicious outcome.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
- Place cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; label containers with dates.
Reheating Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce.
What can I serve with Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce?
You can pair this dish with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store separately until ready to serve.
Is Chicken Piccata good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.
How do I customize my Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce?
You can add capers or olives for extra flavor, or substitute chicken with fish or tofu for variety.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is both tangy and delightful. Its simplicity makes it suitable for any occasion, from family dinners to entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences—add capers or experiment with herbs! Enjoy this versatile dish that promises satisfaction every time you make it.
PrintChicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a delightful culinary experience that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon and the savory richness of perfectly seared chicken. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its golden-brown chicken, a vibrant lemon sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley, Chicken Piccata not only pleases the palate but also impresses the eyes. Serve it over pasta, alongside sautéed vegetables, or with crusty bread for a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 8 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
- 2 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Flatten each chicken breast to 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- In one shallow dish, whisk together egg substitute, wine, lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot pepper sauce. In another dish, mix flour, Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, and salt.
- Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken for 3–5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Melt butter in the same skillet. Add remaining wine and lemon juice; bring to a boil and reduce by one-fourth.
- Drizzle sauce over warm chicken before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 4 ounces)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
