Chicken Piccata (chicken breast with butter, lemon, capers)

Delicious Chicken Piccata Recipe: Chicken Breast with Butter, Lemon, and Capers

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover the story behind a classic recipe, reinterpreted with a personal touch. Chicken Piccata is a dish that combines the intense flavor of chicken with the freshness of lemon and the saltiness of capers, providing you with an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Necessary Ingredients:

- 4 chicken breasts (approximately 600 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of dried basil
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter (for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup of white wine or chicken broth
- 3-4 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2-3 tablespoons of capers (adjust to taste)
- 6 sliced champignon mushrooms
- 2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Start by washing the chicken breast well, then cut it into slices about 1-1.5 cm thick. This will help the meat cook evenly. Season each slice with salt and pepper, then coat them in a mixture of flour and dried basil. This crust will provide a pleasant texture and help caramelize the chicken.

2. Cooking the chicken: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and 1-2 tablespoons of butter, then heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken slices. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they become golden and crispy. After cooking, remove the chicken slices to a platter and cover them with foil to keep warm.

3. Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet (without cleaning it), add the white wine or chicken broth, as well as the capers. These will add a salty flavor and a note of freshness. Stir well, ensuring you scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – these are full of flavor!

4. Adding additional ingredients: Add the lemon juice, chopped garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Let everything simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms soften. Finally, add the remaining butter for a creamy, rich sauce.

5. Finishing the dish: Return the chicken slices to the skillet and let them soak in the flavorful sauce for 1-2 minutes. This step allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors.

6. Serving: Serve Chicken Piccata hot, drizzled with the sauce from the skillet. A perfect accompaniment would be gratin cauliflower, which adds a crunchy texture and a creamy note. You can also add a few slices of fresh lemon for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Select fresh, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Champignon mushrooms are an excellent choice, but you can also experiment with other types, such as shiitake or portobello mushrooms.

- White wine: If you prefer not to use wine, you can use chicken broth for a less acidic sauce. White wine adds a complexity of flavors that enhances the dish.

- Capers: These are an essential ingredient in Chicken Piccata, but if you don't have them on hand, you can try finely chopped green olives for a different note.

- Serving: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for an added splash of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information:
This Chicken Piccata recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving, providing a good source of protein from the chicken breast and nutrients from the mushrooms and olive oil. Additionally, lemon brings a dose of vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute the chicken breast with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey, but the cooking time will vary. Make sure the meat is cooked thoroughly.

2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can make the sauce ahead of time, but it is recommended to add it to the meat just before serving to maintain the chicken's texture.

3. What can I serve with Chicken Piccata?
Besides gratin cauliflower, this dish pairs well with fresh pasta or a crunchy green salad.

4. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
Replace the chicken breast with slices of tofu or large mushrooms, such as portobello mushrooms, and follow the same steps to create a delicious sauce.

This Chicken Piccata recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of delicious flavors, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and don't forget to share with your loved ones!