This garlic chicken piccata is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of chicken breasts with the zesty brightness of lemon and capers. It's a perfect meal for any occasion, offering a savory experience that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Photos of Garlic Chicken Piccata Recipe
When preparing this recipe, you might need to visit the supermarket for ingredients like capers, which are typically found in the pickles and olives section. Additionally, ensure you have dry white wine and fresh parsley on hand, as these may not be commonly stocked in every pantry.
Ingredients For Garlic Chicken Piccata
Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base.
Flour: Used to coat the chicken, giving it a slight crust when fried.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the coating and garnish.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Black cracked pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
Unsalted butter: Used to cook the chicken and make the sauce rich and creamy.
Olive oil: Helps to fry the chicken and blend with the butter for a smooth sauce.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic essence.
Dry white wine: Helps deglaze the pan and adds a slight acidity to the sauce.
Chicken stock: Forms the base of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty note, balancing the richness of the butter.
Capers: Provide a briny, tangy flavor that complements the lemon and garlic.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to the final dish.
One reader, Elwyn Mark says:
This garlic chicken piccata recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is both elegant and comforting. The garlic and lemon combination is divine, and the capers add a delightful tang. It's easy to make but tastes like a gourmet meal. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Mastering Garlic Chicken Piccata
How to dredge chicken: Coat the chicken breasts in the flour and parmesan mixture, ensuring an even layer on all sides, then shake off any excess. How to fry chicken: Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. How to deglaze a pan: Add wine to the hot pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate them into the sauce. How to reduce a sauce: Allow the liquid to boil and evaporate until it thickens and the flavors concentrate, usually for about 6 minutes.
How To Make Garlic Chicken Piccata
This recipe infuses garlic into your usual chicken piccata. The classic flavors of parmesan and butter complete this hearty and comforting dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2largechicken breastsboneless, skinless, and halved horizontally to make 4
- 2tbspflourall purpose or plain
- 2tbspfresh Parmesan cheesefinely grated
- 1tspsalt
- ¼tspblack cracked pepper
- 4tbspunsalted butterdivided
- 2tbspolive oildivided
- 4largecloves garlicminced
- ¼cupdry white winecan be omitted
- ¾cupchicken stock
- 2tbsplemon juicefresh
- ¼cupbrined capersrinsed
- ¼cupfresh parsleychopped
- Parmesan cheeseto serve
Instructions
-
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and parmesan cheese. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
-
Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture; shake off excess and set aside.
-
In a large pan or skillet heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
-
When hot, fry 2 pieces of chicken first until golden on each side and cooked through. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Transfer to a warm plate.
-
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and another tablespoon of olive oil.
-
When hot, fry the remaining chicken until browned on both sides. Transfer to a plate.
-
In the same pan, melt one more tablespoon of butter. Fry the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Add the wine and bring to a boil, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
-
Cook until wine almost evaporates, stirring occasionally.
-
Pour in the stock, lemon juice, and capers and allow to boil for about 6 minutes or until reduced slightly. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
-
Add remaining butter to the pan, allow to melt, then add the chicken back into the pan along with all of the juices from the plate.
-
Simmer for 5 minutes to heat through.
-
Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 422.13kcal
- Fat: 30.26g
- Saturated Fat: 12.07g
- Trans Fat: 0.58g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.70g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.46g
- Carbohydrates: 8.06g
- Fiber: 0.68g
- Sugar: 1.22g
- Protein: 26.68g
- Cholesterol: 104.64mg
- Sodium: 518.84mg
- Calcium: 92.71mg
- Potassium: 363.42mg
- Iron: 1.55mg
- Vitamin A: 149.74µg
- Vitamin C: 9.96mg
Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Garlic Chicken Piccata
To ensure your chicken breasts cook evenly and stay juicy, consider pounding them to an even thickness before dredging in the flour mixture. This not only helps in achieving a uniform golden crust but also ensures that the chicken cooks through at the same rate, preventing any dry or undercooked spots.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ingredients ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook. This will streamline the process and reduce cooking time.
Use thin chicken breasts: Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. They cook faster and more evenly.
Preheat the pan: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a golden crust quickly.
Minced garlic in advance: Mince the garlic ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This saves time during cooking.
Simmer sauce while frying: Start the sauce while the second batch of chicken is frying to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Garlic Chicken Piccata Recipe
Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative for chicken in this recipe.
Flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent and provides a similar texture to flour when coating the chicken.
Fresh parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor, making it a suitable replacement for parmesan.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
Black cracked pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma.
Unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, buttery flavor and can withstand higher cooking temperatures without burning.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative to olive oil.
Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish similarly to garlic.
Dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar: This combination mimics the acidity and depth of flavor that dry white wine adds to the dish.
Chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can provide a similar savory base while keeping the dish flavorful.
Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative to lemon juice.
Brined capers - Substitute with green olives: Green olives provide a similar briny and tangy flavor, adding a comparable burst of taste to the dish.
Fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro offers a bright, fresh flavor that can complement the dish similarly to parsley.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated asiago cheese: Asiago cheese has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement for parmesan.
How to Beautifully Present Garlic Chicken Piccata
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the garlic chicken piccata in elegant, smaller portions to highlight the finesse of the dish. Slice the chicken breasts into medallions for a refined look.
Use a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will make the vibrant colors of the lemon juice, capers, and parsley pop, enhancing the visual appeal.
Create a sauce pool: Pour a small pool of the lemon caper sauce on the plate before placing the chicken medallions. This ensures the sauce is evenly distributed and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Add a few whole capers for texture and visual interest.
Add a lemon twist: Place a thinly sliced lemon twist or wedge on the side of the plate to accentuate the citrus notes of the dish and add a touch of elegance.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to add a glossy sheen and enhance the flavors.
Use microgreens: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the chicken for a modern, sophisticated touch.
Sprinkle parmesan cheese: Lightly grate fresh parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving to add a final layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Serve with a side of crusty bread: Include a small piece of crusty bread on the side to complement the rich sauce and provide textural contrast.
Ensure perfect temperature: Serve the dish immediately while it's hot to ensure the butter and sauce are at their peak flavor and consistency.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Garlic Chicken Piccata
Shallow bowl: Used to combine the flour and parmesan cheese for dredging the chicken.
Large pan or skillet: Essential for frying the chicken and making the sauce.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken pieces while frying.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring out ingredients like butter, oil, and lemon juice.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken stock and wine.
Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic cloves quickly.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Plate: Needed to transfer the cooked chicken to a warm place.
Knife: For chopping fresh parsley.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping parsley and other ingredients.
Microplane or grater: Used for grating fresh parmesan cheese.
Lemon squeezer: Helps extract juice from the lemon efficiently.
Serving platter: For presenting the finished garlic chicken piccata.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Garlic Chicken Piccata
- Allow the garlic chicken piccata to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken piccata in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken piccata:
- Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- To reheat frozen chicken piccata:
- Thaw the frozen dish overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the thawed chicken piccata in a covered skillet or saucepan over low heat.
- Gently simmer, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock or water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, on medium power until warmed through.
- Note that the texture of the reheated dish may be slightly different from when it was freshly made, but the flavors will still be delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Garlic Chicken Piccata
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is simmering. This method helps to preserve the texture of the chicken and allows the flavors to meld together.
Place the leftover garlic chicken piccata in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Stir the sauce and check the temperature before serving.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover garlic chicken piccata to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
If you have a sous vide machine, place the leftover chicken and sauce in a vacuum-sealed bag and reheat in a water bath at 140°F (60°C) for about 30 minutes. This method ensures even heating and maintains the moisture of the chicken.
For a quick and easy lunch, shred the leftover chicken and mix it with the piccata sauce. Serve the mixture over a bed of fresh greens, pasta, or rice for a satisfying meal.
Fascinating Trivia About Garlic Chicken Piccata
A random fact about this recipe is that chicken piccata is an Italian-American dish that traditionally features chicken breasts dredged in flour, browned, and served with a sauce made from lemon juice, butter, and capers.
Is Making Garlic Chicken Piccata at Home Cost-Effective?
This garlic chicken piccata recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, garlic, and lemon juice are relatively affordable. The use of parmesan cheese and capers adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.
Is Garlic Chicken Piccata Healthy or Unhealthy?
The garlic chicken piccata recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to the use of butter, flour, and oil. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional aspects:
- Chicken breast is a lean protein source, which is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety.
- The use of garlic and parsley adds flavor and provides some antioxidants and vitamins.
- The recipe includes a moderate amount of healthy fats from olive oil and butter, which can help with nutrient absorption and satiety.
- The addition of white wine and lemon juice adds depth to the dish and provides some acidity, which can help balance flavors.
However, the recipe also has some drawbacks:
- The use of flour for dredging the chicken adds extra carbohydrates and calories to the dish.
- The amount of butter used in the recipe is relatively high, which can contribute to increased saturated fat intake.
- The recipe calls for added salt, which may be a concern for individuals watching their sodium intake.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe by half, and replace it with additional olive oil, which is a healthier fat option.
- Instead of using all-purpose flour for dredging, opt for a whole-grain flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and reduce the glycemic impact of the dish.
- Reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe, and rely more on the capers and parmesan cheese for saltiness.
- Increase the amount of garlic and parsley used in the recipe to boost the antioxidant and vitamin content of the dish.
- Serve the chicken piccata with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal.
Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Garlic Chicken Piccata
This garlic chicken piccata recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, balancing the richness of butter and parmesan with the tanginess of lemon and capers. The use of dry white wine adds depth, while the garlic infuses a robust aroma. The method ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful, with a beautifully golden crust. Garnishing with fresh parsley and additional parmesan elevates the dish, making it both visually appealing and delicious. Overall, this recipe is a sophisticated yet approachable take on a classic, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Enhance Your Garlic Chicken Piccata Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Garlic Chicken Piccata
Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Garlic Chicken Piccata Meal
Why trust this Garlic Chicken Piccata Recipe:
This garlic chicken piccata recipe is a must-try for any home cook. The combination of fresh parmesan cheese and lemon juice creates a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. The use of dry white wine and capers adds depth and complexity to the dish. Plus, the step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and straightforward preparation.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Chicken Piccata (CPK Copycat) Recipe
Chicken Limone Recipe
Chicken Piccata with Artichoke Hearts Recipe
Chickpea Greek Salad Recipe
Creamy Lemonade Ice Pops Recipe
Basic Blueberry Smoothie Recipe
Honey and Ginger Chicken Recipe
Homemade Salsa Verde Recipe
Kale Pecan Pesto Recipe
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Chicken and Olives Recipe
