Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata
Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is a vibrant and flavorful dish that turns any meal into a celebration. The tender chicken is infused with the bright notes of lemon and fragrant basil, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with pasta or salad. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful culinary adventure together!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 juicy lemons (zest and juice)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by placing it between plastic wrap and gently pound until about ½ inch thick.
- Set up a dredging station with seasoned flour; coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Add garlic and capers; simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and basil; return chicken to the pan to soak up flavors for another 5 minutes.
- Finish by swirling in butter until melted; serve warm with fresh basil on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute lemon with lime or add more capers for extra brininess. Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken uniformly. Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact.