When it comes to recipes that are both elegant and approachable, chicken piccata tops the list. This dish is beloved for its tender chicken cutlets and bold, tangy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick and satisfying meal, this classic Italian-American dish fits the bill.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about chicken piccata: its origins, how to make it perfectly, and what to serve it with. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure your success in the kitchen.
Table of contents
What Is Chicken Piccata?
Chicken piccata is a dish that showcases simplicity at its finest. It starts with thinly sliced chicken breasts that are lightly dredged in flour and pan-fried until golden brown. The chicken is then smothered in a bright, tangy sauce made from fresh lemon juice, white wine, chicken stock, and capers.
The term piccata comes from the Italian word meaning “pounded flat” or “larded.” While the original Italian dish typically uses veal (piccata di vitello), the American adaptation featuring chicken has become wildly popular.
Why Is Chicken Piccata So Popular?
This dish has become a favorite in American households and restaurants for several reasons:
- Quick to Prepare: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Yet Balanced Flavors: The tanginess of the lemon complements the savory chicken, while capers add a briny punch.
- Versatile Pairings: Chicken piccata works with pasta, potatoes, rice, or vegetables, making it a flexible main course.
How Does Chicken Piccata Compare to Similar Dishes?
Chicken Piccata vs. Chicken Marsala
The most significant difference lies in the sauce.
- Chicken marsala features a rich, sweet sauce made from Marsala wine and mushrooms, while
- Chicken piccata relies on the bright acidity of lemons and the brininess of capers.
Both are Italian-inspired, but their flavor profiles are worlds apart.
Chicken Piccata vs. Chicken Francese
The difference between these two lies in preparation.
- In chicken francese, the chicken is coated in both flour and egg before frying, resulting in a richer, silkier crust.
- Chicken piccata, however, skips the egg batter and focuses on a simple flour dredge.
Both dishes feature a lemony sauce, but piccata has a more pronounced caper flavor.
Learn about the origins of Italian-American dishes here.
Ingredients for Chicken Piccata
The beauty of chicken piccata lies in its simplicity. You likely already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging).
- 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons).
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, for extra depth).
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed.
- 1 cup chicken stock.
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish).
Optional Add-Ins:
- Thin lemon slices for garnish.
- Minced garlic for added depth.
- A splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Piccata
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets.
- Place the cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Stir in the chicken stock, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Finish the Dish
- Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Simmer for an additional 3–4 minutes to heat the chicken and thicken the sauce slightly.
- Stir in the remaining butter for a silky finish.
5. Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Piccata
The tangy and savory flavors of chicken piccata pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:
Pasta
- Angel hair or spaghetti tossed with olive oil and garlic.
- Lemon-parsley linguine for a zesty complement.
Vegetables
- Steamed asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes.
- Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs.
Rice
- Lemon-infused rice or herbed wild rice.
- A light pilaf with fresh parsley and almonds.
Explore more side dish ideas here.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Piccata
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is key to achieving the dish’s signature bright flavor.
- Don’t Skip Rinsing the Capers: This removes excess saltiness.
- Control the Thickness of the Sauce: Add more chicken stock if it’s too thick, or reduce it if it’s too thin.
- Adjust the Butter: Add more for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutrition Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of chicken piccata:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 480mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which country’s dish is chicken piccata?
While chicken piccata originated in Italy, the version with chicken instead of veal was popularized in the United States.
What’s the difference between chicken marsala and chicken piccata?
Chicken marsala features a sweet, wine-based sauce, while chicken piccata has a tangy, lemon-caper sauce.
What is chicken piccata usually served with?
It’s commonly paired with pasta, vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
What does piccata mean in Italian?
The term means “pounded flat” or “larded,” referring to the preparation of the meat.
What’s the difference between chicken piccata and chicken francese?
Chicken francese involves an egg batter, while chicken piccata skips the egg and emphasizes the lemon-caper sauce.
Chicken piccata is a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and simplicity. Its vibrant lemon-caper sauce and tender chicken cutlets make it a standout choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, mastering chicken piccata is well within reach with the right ingredients and techniques.
By exploring its Italian-American roots and experimenting with sides like pasta, vegetables, or potatoes, you can tailor this classic recipe to suit any meal. With its balance of bold flavors and ease of preparation, chicken piccata is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ready to get cooking? Grab your skillet, zest a lemon, and enjoy this timeless favorite with your loved ones. Buon appetito!