This light chicken piccata recipe is a healthier and lighter version of the classic Italian dish. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed in a flavorful lemon-caper sauce, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. With its bright flavors and low-calorie count, this chicken piccata is perfect for a light and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring the mixture to a boil and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a serving platter. Stir in the butter and parsley into the sauce until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Pour the lemon-caper sauce over the chicken and garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Interesting Facts
Chicken piccata originated in Italy and is typically made with veal, but chicken is a popular variation.
The lemon-caper sauce adds a tangy and briny flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the chicken.
This light version of chicken piccata is lower in calories and fat compared to traditional recipes, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.