Chicken Piccata (Pan-Fried, 25-Minute)
Golden-browned cutlets seared until crisp at the edges, then finished in a glossy lemon and caper butter sauce that balances tang and richness. The quick pan sauce reduces in minutes, coating the chicken with silky, bright flavors and a pop of briny capers.
Swap thin chicken cutlets for turkey cutlets or use bone-in (longer cook time) if preferred; substitute low-sodium chicken stock for white wine to keep the sauce family-friendly. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with rice flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Serve this skillet-friendly meal over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or simple steamed vegetables for an elegant weeknight dinner or casual date-night. Make extra sauce and refrigerate up to 2 days — gently rewarm and spoon over leftover roasted vegetables or grilled fish.
How to Make It
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1
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) between sheets of plastic wrap using the flat side of a meat mallet or rolling pin.
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2
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.
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3
Dredge each breast lightly in the flour, shaking off excess.
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4
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
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5
Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through; transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
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6
Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to avoid browning.
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7
Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up browned bits; simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced.
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8
Add the chicken stock, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer the sauce 2–3 minutes until it reduces a bit and begins to thicken.
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9
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over each piece, cooking 1 minute to rewarm and marry flavors.
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10
Stir the chopped parsley into the sauce, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve the chicken with the lemon-caper butter sauce spooned over.