Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
Why make this recipe
Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata is a delightful twist on the classic chicken piccata. It brings together bright flavors of lemon, capers, and garlic, making it a favorite for dinner parties or family meals. This dish not only tastes fantastic but is also fairly simple to prepare. The juicy chicken combined with the tangy sauce is sure to please everyone’s palate. Plus, it can be served with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any occasion.
How to make Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
Ingredients
- 2 pieces skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded to ½-inch thickness
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 6 tablespoons butter (or substitute with olive oil)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1½ tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- To taste salt and pepper
- For garnish fresh parsley and lemon slices
Directions
- Start by butterflying the chicken breasts to make them even in thickness. Pound them to ½-inch thick for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper. Place the flour on a plate and coat each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Add the capers and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining butter until melted.
- Serve warm, drizzling the sauce over the chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
How to serve Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
Serve the Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata warm on a plate. Drizzle the lemon-caper sauce over the chicken pieces and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added color. Consider pairing this dish with a light pasta, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad to enhance the meal.
How to store Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep the sauce moist. Heat until warm throughout.
Tips to make Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
- Make sure to pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the level of garlic and capers to your taste.
- For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Variation
If you want to experiment, you can try adding olives or cherry tomatoes to the sauce. These ingredients can add more color and flavor to the dish, giving it a Mediterranean flair.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Just make sure they are cooked through for safety.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it works well for meal prep. Just store it in separate containers and reheat before serving.
3. What can I substitute for capers?
If you’re not a fan of capers, you can omit them or substitute with chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor.
