Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Keep the chicken and sauce separate in the fridge and combine on the stove to reheat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs add a little more flavor and stay moist. Just adjust the cook time and watch for doneness.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes. Use a gluten-free flour blend to coat the chicken. The texture will be just as pleasing.

My sauce looks thin. How do I thicken it?

Simmer a little longer until it reduces and coats the spoon. You can also whisk in a small bit of butter off the heat to give it a glossy body.

Can I skip the capers?

You can, but they add a bright, salty contrast that lifts the whole dish. A few chopped olives make a similar, milder note.

Easy Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce 2026 Cook That Dish

Description

A quick and flavorful chicken piccata dish with bright lemon and capers, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 cup chicken broth
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness and season with salt and pepper.
Lightly coat the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan.
Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth and lemon juice. Add capers and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Plate the chicken, pour sauce over it, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer sauce, finish with a final tablespoon of butter off the heat. Leftovers can taste even better the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Italian