Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

It’s a sunny afternoon, and the aroma of Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata wafts through the air, making your taste buds dance with delight. Picture juicy chicken breasts, perfectly seared, glistening under a zesty lemon sauce that whispers sweet nothings to your palate while fresh basil adds a delightful twist.

This dish is more than just a meal it’s an experience that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. The moment you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has earned its spot in my heart (and kitchen) for years.

I remember the first time I made this dish it was for a dinner party where I wanted to impress my friends. Let’s just say they were all fighting over the last piece, and I had to hide in the kitchen to enjoy my own serving

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor trust me it makes all the difference.
• Fresh Basil: Look for vibrant green leaves they add a refreshing brightness that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemons provide the zestiness needed bottled juice just doesn’t cut it
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your sauce without sacrificing flavor.
• Capers: These little guys pack a punch of flavor they’ll elevate your piccata to restaurant-quality status.
• Butter: A touch of butter at the end makes the sauce silky and rich don’t skip this step

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances flavor right from the start.

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Garlic and Deglaze: Once chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then pour in some chicken broth, scraping up those tasty browned bits.

Create the Sauce: Stir in lemon juice and capers into the pan. Bring this vibrant mixture to a simmer to allow flavors to meld beautifully, about 3 minutes.

Add Basil and Butter: Remove from heat once thickened slightly stir in chopped basil and butter until melted. This final touch gives your sauce that rich silkiness we all crave.

Combine Everything: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning that glorious sauce over each piece. Allow them to soak in all those flavors for another minute before serving.

Now that you’ve crafted this beautiful Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata, serve it hot alongside your favorite sides like pasta or roasted veggies. Get ready for compliments

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken in a hot pan first to develop a golden crust, then prepare the sauce while the chicken cooks through for optimal flavor and efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or fish for a seafood twist. Add capers or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the dish’s moisture and flavor.

Sharing this dish at family gatherings always brings smiles, especially when someone asks for the recipe it’s my secret weapon for impressing guests

FAQ

What is Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata?

Zesty lemon basil chicken piccata is a flavorful dish featuring chicken in a lemony sauce with fresh basil.

Can I make Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead just reheat before serving with freshly cooked chicken.

What can I serve with Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata?

It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

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Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a tangy lemon sauce, complemented by fresh basil and capers. This recipe not only delights your taste buds but also brings everyone together for a memorable dining experience. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for any occasion—from a busy weeknight dinner to an elegant gathering with friends.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant (30 seconds). Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
4. Stir in lemon juice and capers; simmer for about 3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil and butter until melted.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Let soak in flavors for one minute before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 120mg