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Classic Chicken Piccata with Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce

Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that exudes the charm of Italian cuisine, effortlessly combining the tenderness of chicken with the tangy brightness of lemon and the salty zing of capers. This dish has become a staple on many dinner tables, offering a quick yet sophisticated option for both weeknight meals and special occasions. In this article, we will explore how to prepare Classic Chicken Piccata with a zesty lemon caper sauce that will tantalise your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 100g plain flour (for dredging)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 50g unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce:

• 120ml chicken stock
• 60ml fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of cling film or parchment paper. Gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet until they are approximately 1.5 cm thick. This process not only tenderises the meat but also ensures that they cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Spread the plain flour on a large plate and lightly dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. This dusting will create a lovely golden crust once cooked.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil and 25g of the butter over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce

In the same frying pan, lower the heat to medium and add the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits, known as ‘fond’, are packed with flavour and will enrich your sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and capers, and let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, add the remaining butter to the pan, stirring until it has melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top to coat the meat. Allow it to warm through for a minute or so.

To serve, place the chicken breasts on warm plates, drizzling the zesty lemon caper sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with chopped parsley and accompany with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.

Accompaniments

Chicken Piccata is beautifully complemented by a range of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette, or perhaps some buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta to soak up the delectable sauce. Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans also make for a lovely, vibrant addition to the plate.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Piccata with Zesty Lemon Caper Sauce is a dish that embodies freshness and flavour, all while being deceptively simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can create an impressive meal that is sure to impress family and friends alike. So why not treat yourself to this Italian classic and enjoy a taste of culinary elegance straight from your own kitchen? Buon appetito!