Baked Chicken Piccata is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender chicken and a tangy lemon-caper sauce. Originating from Italy, this recipe has become a favorite in kitchens worldwide for its delicious flavor and ease of preparation. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Baked Chicken Piccata, exploring its ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for creating the perfect dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a healthy twist on a classic, this baked version of Chicken Piccata will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
What is Chicken Piccata Made of?
Chicken Piccata is traditionally made with chicken breasts, lemon juice, capers, and butter, creating a rich, zesty sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. The dish is known for its bright flavors, with the lemon and capers adding a refreshing tanginess that cuts through the richness of the butter.
What’s the Difference Between Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francaise?
While Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francaise may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two dishes. Chicken Piccata is characterized by its lemon-caper sauce, while Chicken Francaise typically features a creamy lemon-butter sauce. Additionally, Chicken Francaise is often dipped in egg before being sautéed, giving it a slightly different texture compared to the flour-coated Chicken Piccata.
What Does Piccata Style Mean?
“Piccata” is an Italian term that refers to the preparation method of slicing meat, coating it in flour, and cooking it in a flavorful sauce. This style is known for its simplicity and ability to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
What Does Piccata Sauce Taste Like?
Piccata sauce is a delightful blend of tart and savory flavors. The lemon juice provides a bright, zesty note, while the capers add a salty, tangy punch. Combined with butter and a hint of garlic, the sauce is both rich and refreshing, enhancing the taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Coat with Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Piccata Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Lemon Juice and Broth: Stir in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Capers: Add the capers to the sauce and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
Baking the Chicken
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
- Bake in Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve the chicken hot, with the sauce drizzled over the top.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Cooking
- Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and dredging.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and parsley will enhance the flavor of the dish, providing a more vibrant taste.
Possible Variations
- Oven-Baked Chicken Piccata Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.
- Healthy Baked Chicken Piccata: Reduce the amount of butter or replace it with a healthier fat, such as olive oil, for a lighter dish.
- Baked Chicken Piccata for a Crowd: Double or triple the recipe ingredients and bake the chicken in a large baking dish to serve a larger group.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Baked Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that combines the tangy flavors of lemon and capers with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please. The baked version of this classic Italian dish offers a healthier alternative without compromising taste. Try making Baked Chicken Piccata at home, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to suit your taste. Share your experiences in the comments below, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes from easycrispyrecipes.com!