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Ina Garten Chicken Piccata

Ina Garten Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata is a pan-seared chicken dish that is finished with a sauce made of lemon juice, butter, white wine, and capers. The chicken is lightly dredged in flour, giving it a golden crust while keeping it tender and juicy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 cutlets)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
  • ¼ cup capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pound the chicken – Place the halved chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to an even ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
  • Season the chicken – Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

  • Set up a dredging station – Place flour in one shallow dish, whisk the egg with water in a second dish, and place breadcrumbs in a third.
  • Dredge the chicken – Lightly coat each piece in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  • Heat the pan – In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat.
  • Pan-fry the chicken – Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Lemon-Caper Sauce

  • Deglaze the pan – Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 1 minute, scraping up browned bits.
  • Add the lemon juice and capers – Stir to combine and let it reduce for 2 minutes.
  • Finish with butter – Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to create a smooth, velvety sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  • Return the chicken to the pan – Coat with the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley – Sprinkle over the top.
  • Serve immediately – Best enjoyed hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.