When I first tasted Lemon Chicken Piccata at a cozy Italian bistro, the burst of fresh lemon and the briny capers danced on my palate and forever changed my weeknight dinners. I marveled at how such a complex flavor profile could come together so effortlessly. Fast forward to today, I found myself craving that vibrant dish but wanted to create an easy, homemade version I could whip up on a busy evening.
This recipe combines the classic elements of a piccata with a unique twist: a luscious coconut cream that adds a creamy richness without overwhelming the bright citrus. Perfect for anyone looking to escape the monotony of takeout, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also transforms everyday chicken breasts into something striking and delicious. Whether you’re impressing guests or making dinner for yourself, this Lemon Chicken Piccata will add a spark to your kitchen and leave everyone wanting more. Let’s dive into the delightful world of flavors and recreate this gem at home!
Why is Lemon Chicken Piccata a must-try?
Exciting flavors collide in this zesty dish, bringing a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Creamy texture from the coconut cream pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon and briny capers, creating a sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Easy preparation means you can whip this up on a busy weeknight without stress. Impressive presentation ensures your dinner looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for special occasions too. For more quick and delicious chicken options, check out our chicken recipes.
Lemon Chicken Piccata Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – a lean protein that absorbs all those fabulous flavors.
• Sea salt and black pepper – essential seasonings to enhance the chicken’s natural taste.
For the Coating
• 3 Tbsp blanched almond flour – adds a delicate crunch without using gluten.
• 2 Tbsp tapioca flour – creates a light coating that crisps beautifully in the pan.
For the Sauce
• 3 Tbsp ghee – brings a rich, buttery flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 4 cloves garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness and depth of flavor.
• 1 small onion – adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken bone broth – serves as a savory base that ties all the flavors together.
• Juice of 1 lemon – provides that beloved citrus zing essential for any Lemon Chicken Piccata.
• 1/3 cup coconut cream – adds creamy richness that beautifully balances the dish.
• 1 1/2 tsp stone ground mustard or dijon (optional) – gives a tangy kick for those who love a bit of zest.
• 1/4 cup capers – brings a briny, punchy flavor that brightens the sauce.
For the Garnish
• Additional capers – for an eye-catching finish; they enhance the dish’s visual appeal as well as its flavor.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Piccata
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Pound the Chicken: Start by gently pounding the chicken breasts to about 1/2” thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and result in tender, juicy slices.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle the chicken with sea salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step elevates the flavor, making each bite burst with deliciousness.
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Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine the almond flour and tapioca flour. This gluten-free mix will create a lovely, crispy coating, adding texture to your dish.
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Heat the Ghee: Melt 1 Tbsp of ghee in a skillet over medium heat. The ghee not only imparts flavor but also provides a high smoke point, perfect for searing chicken.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
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Add Broth and Lemon: Combine the chicken bone broth and fresh lemon juice in a measuring cup, then pour it into the skillet. This savory base will elevate the sauce to new heights.
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Incorporate Coconut Cream: Stir in the coconut cream and mustard (if using) until fully combined. The coconut cream lends a rich, velvety texture that balances the zesty notes perfectly.
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Add Capers: Toss in the capers, giving them a gentle stir. Their briny punch will beautifully contrast with the creamy sauce, waking up your taste buds.
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Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened, about 7-10 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
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Serve and Garnish: Plate the chicken and drizzle with the luscious sauce. Garnish with additional capers if desired for a pop of flavor and eye-catching appeal.
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed veggies or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Chicken Piccata
Fridge: Store your leftover Lemon Chicken Piccata in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help preserve the flavors and texture of the dish.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this delightful dish later, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating: Thaw the frozen Lemon Chicken Piccata in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Serving Suggestions: When serving leftovers, consider adding fresh garnishes like lemon slices or extra capers to brighten the flavors and presentation!
Expert Tips for Lemon Chicken Piccata
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Pound the Chicken Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken to the same thickness for even cooking, preventing any dry or overcooked parts.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper; they are crucial in enhancing the natural flavors of your Lemon Chicken Piccata.
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Monitor Sauce Thickness: Keep an eye on your sauce as it cooks. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice make a notable difference in flavor compared to dried or bottled options.
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Capers Care: Be cautious not to over-add capers; their briny flavor can be quite strong. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.
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Perfect Cooking Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to stay juicy and safe to eat, making your Lemon Chicken Piccata delightful!
Lemon Chicken Piccata Variations
Get ready to transform this delightful dish into something even more personalized and exciting!
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Gluten-Free Coating: Swap almond flour with your favorite gluten-free bread crumbs for an even crunchier coat that everyone can enjoy.
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Herb Infusion: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, to the sauce for an aromatic uplift that enhances the dish beautifully.
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Creamy Spinach: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach just before serving; it wilts perfectly, adding color and a pop of nutrition.
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Zesty Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for an unexpected kick that pairs well with the lemon and capers.
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Coconut Milk Substitute: Use coconut milk instead of coconut cream for a lighter sauce; it will still infuse the dish with wonderful flavor.
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate diced zucchini and bell peppers into the sauté for extra texture and a vibrant addition that complements the dish.
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Caper Swap: For a different tang, try olives instead of capers; they deliver a unique twist that may become your new favorite!
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Fruit Variation: Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a hint of sweetness that brilliantly contrasts the zesty lemon.
These variations are fantastic ways to get creative in the kitchen while showcasing your unique tastes!
What to Serve with Chicken with Capers and Coconut Cream?
Create an unforgettable meal experience that your family will cherish!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting classic that soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully, adding a velvety texture. Your taste buds will dance with every bite!
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with lemon, this bright green veggie adds a pop of freshness to your plate, balancing the richness of the coconut cream.
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Garlic Roasted Broccoli: With its crispy edges and savory flavor, roasted broccoli makes for a crunchy contrast, enhancing the dish’s depth.
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Quinoa Salad: Toss together a mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side that adds a nutty texture and keeps things light.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad topped with citrus vinaigrette provides a zesty crunch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. It’s a refreshing contrast!
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Savory Rice Pilaf: This fragrant, herbed rice is the perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce, making every forkful a delight.
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Lemonade Spritzer: Pair your meal with a sparkling lemonade for a refreshing drink that echoes the vibrant lemon notes in the dish. A perfect match!
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse. Its velvety texture and glossy finish will leave your guests swooning!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Chicken Piccata are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and pound the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, which saves you precious time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can prepare the aromatic garlic and onion mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This preparation ensures that all the rich flavors develop ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply heat the ghee, sauté the prepped mixture, add the chicken, and follow the remaining steps until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Lemon Chicken Piccata?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the delightful flavors of the sauce beautifully. You can also use thin-sliced chicken for an even faster cooking time, ensuring a juicy result.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store your leftover Lemon Chicken Piccata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken and sauce as delicious as possible, ensure it’s cooled before sealing the container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove!
Can I freeze Lemon Chicken Piccata?
Absolutely! To freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely, then transfer the chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to restore the creamy sauce.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t fret! Just add a bit of chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring gently over medium heat until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help revitalize the sauce without compromising the flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re concerned about allergies, this Lemon Chicken Piccata is gluten-free due to the use of almond and tapioca flour. However, it does contain nuts from the almond flour, so those with nut allergies should avoid it. If you prefer a dairy-free option, rest assured that the coconut cream provides a lovely creaminess without the use of dairy products.
Lemon Chicken Piccata: A Zesty Twist on Your Dinner Routine
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the Chicken: Start by gently pounding the chicken breasts to about 1/2” thickness.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle the chicken with sea salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine the almond flour and tapioca flour.
- Heat the Ghee: Melt 1 Tbsp of ghee in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until translucent.
- Add Broth and Lemon: Combine the chicken bone broth and fresh lemon juice, then pour into the skillet.
- Incorporate Coconut Cream: Stir in the coconut cream and mustard if using.
- Add Capers: Toss in the capers and stir gently.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and cook until done.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the chicken and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with additional capers.