Dinner, 30-Minute Meals, High-protein, Italian, Mediterranean, Poultry, Recipes

Chicken Picatta

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The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and comforting flavors—making it an ideal addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a cozy weekend meal.

Crustless Beef Pot Pie

crustless beef pot pie

Chicken Picatta

chicken picatta
Cris Angus, DCN, MS

Chicken Picatta

chicken picatta
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: 30-minute-meals, Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 227

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Chicken breast (boneless, skinless, halved length-wise)
  • 1 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 oz All-purpose flour (unbleached)
  • 3 Lemons (medium, half juiced, half sliced)
  • 3 tbsp Capers
  • 1 1/2 cups Chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1/3 cup Parsley (chopped)

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge it in flour. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 12 to 13 minutes until browned and almost cooked through, flipping halfway.
  2. Add the lemon slices and capers to the pan. Cook for one minute.
  3. Add the broth, stir, and simmer on low heat for five minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice. Divide evenly onto plates, top with parsley, and enjoy!
    Serving size = one serving is approximately one chicken breast and 1/4 cup sauce.
    Protein 33g, Carbs 8g, Fiber 1g

Notes

This chicken piccata recipe is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings classic Italian-inspired cuisine right to your kitchen. Featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a light and tangy lemon-caper sauce, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory richness and refreshing citrus notes. The chicken is lightly coated in flour and sautéed in extra virgin olive oil until golden brown, creating a delicate crust that locks in moisture and enhances texture. Fresh lemon juice and slices add vibrant acidity, while capers provide a briny depth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining, this easy chicken piccata recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it both convenient and impressive. The simple yet sophisticated sauce is made with chicken broth, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine without being overly heavy. Finished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, this dish offers a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish that complements the bright lemon notes beautifully.
This healthy chicken piccata is a great option for those looking to enjoy a lighter, protein-rich meal without sacrificing flavor. Compared to traditional versions that rely heavily on butter, this recipe uses heart-healthy olive oil while still delivering a silky, satisfying sauce. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including whole-grain pasta, roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
If you’re searching for a classic chicken piccata recipe, a quick and easy lemon chicken dish, or a healthy Italian-inspired dinner idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. Its combination of simple ingredients, bold flavors, and quick preparation makes it a versatile staple for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its bright, zesty sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant meals that are both nourishing and delicious.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.  
 
 
author-avatar

About Dr. Cris

I am a nutritionist (Doctor of Clinical Nutrition) with a passion for creating fast, healthy recipes to inspire at-home meal preparation, designed to improve overall health and well-being.