Name: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
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, divided; 5 tablespoons lemon juice, divided; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons butter

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When it comes to quick, flavorful, and elegant dishes, Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is a standout. This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken breast halves with a tangy lemon sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish offers a perfect balance of zesty, savory, and fresh flavors. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Chicken Piccata is a classic dish that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s light yet satisfying, and the lemon sauce adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the entire meal. Here are a few reasons why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire:

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Healthy and Flavorful: Lean chicken breast paired with a light sauce means you can enjoy a guilt-free meal without compromising on flavor.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal tailored to your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce, you’ll need the following 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 (divided)
5 tablespoons lemon juice (divided)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
2 tablespoons butter

These pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness of approximately 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken absorb all the delicious flavors.

In a shallow dish, combine the egg substitute, 2 tablespoons of wine (or chicken broth), 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot pepper sauce. In another shallow dish, mix together the flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and salt.

Coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg substitute mixture, and coat it again in the flour mixture. This double coating creates a crispy exterior that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1-1/2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add four chicken breast halves and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the juices run clear. Remove the cooked chicken and keep it warm. Drain any drippings from the skillet.

Repeat the process with the remaining chicken and olive oil. Once all the chicken is cooked, set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer uncovered until it reduces by about one-fourth. This concentrated sauce is rich in flavor and perfectly complements the crispy chicken.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Drizzle the reduced lemon sauce over the cooked chicken breasts. Garnish with extra parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Pasta: Serve over angel hair pasta or linguine to soak up the delicious lemon sauce.
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach make excellent accompaniments.
Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of rice or quinoa provides a neutral base that lets the zesty flavors shine.
Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s what you can expect from one serving (1 chicken breast half):

Calories: 232
Fat: 9g (4g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 346mg
Carbohydrates: 8g (1g sugars, 0g fiber)
Protein: 27g

This dish offers a healthy balance of lean protein and moderate fat, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Pro Tips for Success

Flatten Evenly: Ensuring the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness helps them cook evenly and prevents dry spots.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and minced parsley enhance the dish’s brightness and flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of browning.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, crispy coating, and tangy lemon sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring this delightful recipe to life in your kitchen. Bon appétit!