Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata
Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes
A delightful twist on the classic chicken piccata, featuring the bright and zesty flavor of Meyer lemons.
This Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of tangy Meyer lemons, capers, and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright, citrusy flavor from Meyer lemons
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Perfectly balanced with savory capers and parsley
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata is a refreshing take on the traditional chicken piccata recipe that many love. The subtle sweetness of Meyer lemons elevates the dish, making it a delightful option for both casual dinners and special occasions. This recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine, with its bright flavors and simple preparation, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of juicy chicken breasts, zesty Meyer lemons, and savory capers creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tartness and richness, making this dish a standout in any meal rotation. Whether served over pasta, rice, or simply alongside a fresh salad, this chicken piccata is sure to become a favorite.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the greatest advantages of this Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata recipe is its speed and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something homemade and satisfying without the fuss.
The cooking process is efficient, as you can prepare the chicken and sauce simultaneously, ensuring that everything comes together seamlessly. This recipe is perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike, as it requires minimal equipment and skill while delivering impressive results.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata is incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with a variety of sides. For a light and healthy option, serve it over a bed of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. Alternatively, you can opt for a hearty side of mashed potatoes or creamy risotto to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a complete dining experience, consider complementing the dish with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines will enhance the citrus notes in the dish, elevating your meal to a restaurant-quality level right at home.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:
For the Chicken Piccata
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 2 Meyer lemons
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata:
Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, Meyer lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes.
Finish the Dish
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through. Stir in remaining butter and parsley before serving.
Serve hot with a side of pasta or fresh vegetables!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata is straightforward. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture and flavor.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
While Meyer lemons are the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute them with regular lemons if needed. Just keep in mind that regular lemons are more tart, so adjust the amount of juice to taste. You can also try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for added depth.
If you don’t have capers on hand, olives can serve as a flavorful alternative, providing a similar briny kick. For a twist on the herbs, consider using fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley, each bringing its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, regular lemons can be used, but they will have a sharper taste.
→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata
A delightful twist on the classic chicken piccata, featuring the bright and zesty flavor of Meyer lemons.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Balanced Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Piccata
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 2 Meyer lemons
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How-To Steps
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chicken broth, Meyer lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes.
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through. Stir in remaining butter and parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g