1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by seasoning the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. The flour will help create a golden crust and thicken the sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering, add the chicken cutlets to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Lemon Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the capers and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy, about 2-3 more minutes.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the lemon sauce over the top to coat them well.
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce for another minute to warm through and absorb the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to serving plates, spooning additional sauce over the top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.
- Chicken Piccata is delicious served over pasta, with a side of sautéed vegetables, or alongside a light green salad.
Tips for Perfection
- Thin Cutlets: Ensuring the chicken breasts are thin and even in thickness helps them cook quickly and evenly. You can also pound them gently with a meat mallet if needed.
- Lemon Flavor: For an extra punch of lemon, consider adding some lemon zest to the sauce or using Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter, more aromatic flavor.
- Wine: While the wine is optional, it adds depth and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth.
Conclusion
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a dish that combines simplicity with elegance. The tender chicken, tangy lemon sauce, and briny capers create a flavor profile that is bright and satisfying. This dish is versatile enough to be served at a dinner party or as a comforting meal at home. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and tastes in every bite.
Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste by adding garlic, shallots, or even a splash of cream to the sauce. Happy cooking!