Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Piccata Recipe

The balance of tangy lemon, buttery sauce, and crispy chicken in this piccata makes every chew worth savoring.

Cooking the chicken in batches keeps the pan from cooling down, which helps the coating stay crisp and golden.

A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens everything up and balances the richness of the butter.

A little white wine in the sauce adds depth without overpowering the fresh citrus.

I like to serve this with a simple side of roasted potatoes or asparagus so the flavors really shine!

How to Make Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Piccata

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 1/3 cup Lemon Juice
• 1/2 cup White Wine
• 3 tbsp Capers
• 1/3 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pound the chicken breasts to about a 1/4-inch thickness.

Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs.

Coat each chicken breast first in flour, then egg, and finally the bread crumbs.

Step 3:

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.

Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brown them for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Step 4:

Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking sheet and place in the oven.

Bake for 5-10 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5:

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter.

Stir in the lemon juice, white wine, capers, and reserved lemon halves.

Cook until the sauce reduces slightly.

Serve the sauce over the baked chicken, garnished with chopped parsley.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

 

Use Fresh Lemons

Fresh lemon juice is crucial for the vibrant flavor in this dish, so I recommend squeezing your own lemons right before making this dish.

Pounding Chicken

When pounding the chicken, I find it best to use a meat mallet to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender.

Don’t Rush the Sauce

Allowing the sauce to reduce properly will bring out the best flavors and create a wonderful coating for the chicken.

Keep It Hot

Serve the chicken immediately after baking to maintain the crispiness of the coating.

You might also warm your serving plates in advance!

Use Good Quality Wine

Choose a good quality dry white wine, as it enhances the sauce and complements the lemon wonderfully.

Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Piccata

Steamed Asparagus

You can’t go wrong with steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon zest!

The bright, fresh taste of asparagus pairs brilliantly with the tangy lemon sauce in Ina’s chicken piccata.

A dash of salt and pepper makes the dish sing with simplicity and flavor.

Lemon and Herb Rice

Lemon and herb rice is a fantastic side that complements the zesty chicken piccata.

Infuse the rice with fresh parsley and dill for a burst of herby goodness.

It’s light, airy, and perfect for soaking up that luscious piccata sauce.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes add a creamy, comforting touch to the meal.

Rich and buttery, they balance out the bright acidity of lemon chicken piccata perfectly.

Arugula Salad

For a simple and refreshing side, toss some fresh arugula with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Add shaved Parmesan for a touch of creaminess and cherry tomatoes for sweetness.

This salad is quick and easy to prepare, providing a fresh contrast to the main course.

Grilled Artichokes

Try something new with grilled artichokes for a unique twist!

The slight smokiness from grilling adds depth and complements the tangy chicken.

A squeeze of lemon over the top before serving ties all the flavors together harmoniously.

Variations and Substitutions

Lemon and Wine

You can enhance the tanginess by using more lemon juice if you love that zesty flavor.

Feel free to substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Flour and Breadcrumbs

Gluten-free flour works well for a wheat-free option.

You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch if you prefer more texture.

Additional Ingredients

Capers are classic, but olives can add a unique twist to the dish.

Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to increase the freshness.

Cooking Methods

For a lighter option, bake the chicken instead of frying it in olive oil.

Grilling the chicken before adding the sauce can offer a smoky flavor.

How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Piccata

You’ve enjoyed your Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Piccata, and now it’s time to stash those delicious leftovers.

Let’s talk about how to keep them fresh and tasty!

In the Fridge

You’ll want to place any leftover chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Pop it in the fridge where it can sit happily for up to 3-4 days without losing its flavor.

Make sure your fridge is set to a safe temperature to prevent spoilage.

In the Freezer

If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers in the next few days, freezing is a great option.

Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Remember to write the date on the container, so you know how long it’s been stored.

Before Storing

Always make sure the chicken is cooled before placing it in any storage containers.

This helps maintain the texture and flavor, which can sometimes change if stored too warm.

I like to wait until it’s room temperature before storing.

Keeping your Lemon Chicken Piccata fresh means you can enjoy it whenever you have a craving!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

Make sure to pound the chicken to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.

If you leave it too thick, you risk having dry and unevenly cooked chicken.

Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s in the oven and avoid overcooking, as it cooks very quickly.

Too Much Lemon Juice

Be cautious with the amount of lemon juice you add to the sauce, as too much can overpower the other flavors.

A balanced sauce is key, so taste and adjust the lemon to your preference as you create it.

Using fresh lemon juice is best, but take it easy with the quantity to keep the dish balanced and mild on the tongue.

Skipping the Breadcrumb Coat

Don’t skip the breadcrumb coat on the chicken if you want a nice crispy texture.

The bread crumbs add a wonderful contrast to the smooth sauce.

Use a mixture of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy golden crust that seals in the juiciness.