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Lemon caper chicken piccata served on modern plate with lemon slices

Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata

A restaurant-worthy dish with tender chicken cutlets in a zesty lemon caper butter sauce. Perfectly elegant yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Italian-American, Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced in half horizontally
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth low sodium
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons capers drained
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1/4 cup white wine optional for variation
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream optional for creamy variation

Instructions
 

  • Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Lightly dredge the chicken cutlets in flour, shaking off any excess.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.
  • In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Scrape the pan to loosen browned bits.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 4–5 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
  • For a creamy variation, stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 more minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

To make this recipe your own, add a splash of white wine for depth, or stir in heavy cream for a richer version. Mediterranean twists can include olives, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes. Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil add brightness. Serve with angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens. This recipe is also adaptable for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free flour.
Keyword chicken piccata, creamy chicken piccata, easy chicken recipe, lemon caper sauce, lemon chicken, Mediterranean chicken, skillet chicken, weeknight dinner