Chicken Picatta

An easy and delicious Chicken Picatta recipe is sure to please any palate! The bright combination of lemon, capers, and paprika brings a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish showcases simple ingredients that come together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can have a delightful meal ready to serve.
• Flavor Explosion: The zingy lemon and salty capers create a unique taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Dish: This Chicken Picatta pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, it appeals to both casual diners and gourmet lovers alike.
• Healthier Option: Packed with lean protein, this recipe offers a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Chicken Picatta, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Ziploc bag
• Meat mallet
• Skillet
• Rubber spatula
• Oven-safe serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Ziploc bag: Perfect for shaking and coating the chicken evenly with flour and spices.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by flattening the chicken breasts to uniform thickness.
• Skillet: Provides a great surface for sautéing the chicken while allowing enough space for easy flipping.

Ingredients

An easy and delicious Chicken Piccata recipe that’s sure to please! The combination of lemon, capers, and paprika will awaken your taste buds!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

For Cooking

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons drained capers

For Garnish (if desired)

• Lemon slices
• Chopped flat leaf parsley

How to Make Chicken Picatta

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

1. In a large Ziploc bag, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; toss to mix well.
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of wax paper. Use a meat mallet to pound them until they are about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Add the chicken breasts into the bag one at a time; shake to coat thoroughly.
2. Shake off any excess flour before frying.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 170 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until bubbling.
3. Sauté two chicken breasts at a time for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Avoid overcooking; tender chicken is key!

Step 4: Keep Warm in Oven

1. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to an oven-safe serving dish.
2. Place it in the oven while you cook the remaining pieces.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. After all chicken is cooked, add water to the skillet while scraping any bits stuck on the bottom with a rubber spatula.
2. Stir in fresh lemon juice.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from heat and pour sauce over the plated chicken.
2. Top with capers and garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Chicken Picatta! Your taste buds will thank you for this vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Chicken Picatta

Serving Chicken Picatta can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its lemony, savory notes. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Classic Italian Style

• Serve with pasta: Toss cooked spaghetti or linguine in olive oil and garlic for a simple yet satisfying side.
• Pair with risotto: A creamy lemon or herb risotto complements the tangy flavors in Chicken Picatta beautifully.

Fresh Salad Options

• Mixed greens salad: Lightly dressed greens add freshness and balance to the richness of the dish.
• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a classic contrast to the chicken.

Vegetable Sides

• Steamed asparagus: The bright flavor of asparagus pairs well with the lemon in Chicken Picatta.
• Garlic sautéed spinach: This quick side brings a healthy green element to your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Picatta

Perfecting your Chicken Picatta requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and capers will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Pound chicken evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness helps the chicken cook consistently and remain tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; this prevents steaming and promotes proper browning.
• Monitor cooking time: Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness after a few minutes on each side.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go; you may want more salt or pepper based on personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Picatta

Complementing your Chicken Picatta with delightful side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some top choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized enhances both flavor and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed side adds texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with Chicken Picatta.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base that balances the tanginess of the dish.
5. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes a light yet filling accompaniment to the chicken.
6. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative, these noodles are refreshing and soak up sauces beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Picatta, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Using too much flour – Over-coating the chicken can lead to a heavy texture. Use just enough flour to create a light coating.
• Not pounding the chicken evenly – Uneven thickness can cause some parts to cook faster than others. Ensure each piece is pounded uniformly for even cooking.
• Cooking at too high a temperature – High heat can lead to burnt outsides and undercooked insides. Medium heat is ideal for achieving a perfect golden brown without compromising the meat.
• Skipping the resting step – Not letting the chicken rest after cooking can result in dry meat. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
• Forgetting to scrape the skillet – Leaving browned bits in the skillet means missing out on flavor. Scrape well after adding water for an enhanced sauce.
• Neglecting garnishes – Skipping lemon slices and parsley might make your dish less visually appealing. These not only enhance presentation but also add fresh flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Picatta in an airtight container.
• It should last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Picatta

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chicken Picatta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Chicken Picatta.

What is Chicken Picatta?

Chicken Picatta is a flavorful Italian dish featuring sautéed chicken breasts served in a lemony caper sauce.

Can I use other proteins for Chicken Picatta?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even thinly sliced beef or lamb for variety.

How do I make Chicken Picatta gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend when coating the chicken.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Picatta?

Chicken Picatta pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it versatile for any meal.

How spicy is Chicken Picatta?

This dish isn’t typically spicy but adds paprika for mild warmth. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Picatta recipe is an easy yet impressive dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its bright flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Plus, feel free to customize it by adding veggies or adjusting seasonings!

Print

Chicken Picatta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Chicken Picatta, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon and caper sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike. In just under an hour, you can serve up a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with lean protein. The bright notes of lemon, the briny pop of capers, and a hint of paprika create a flavor explosion that your family and guests will adore. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables, this Chicken Picatta is sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons drained capers

Instructions

1. In a large Ziploc bag, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pound chicken breasts between wax paper to about 1/4-inch thickness.
3. Coat each breast in the flour mixture and shake off excess.
4. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Sauté chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown; transfer to an oven-safe dish to keep warm.
6. Add water and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping the bottom for flavor; pour over chicken before serving.
7. Garnish with capers and lemon slices if desired.

• Author: Dahlia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice for an hour before cooking. Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or thinly sliced beef for a different protein option. Serve alongside garlic sautéed spinach or quinoa salad for a balanced meal.