Name: Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; large chicken breasts; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp finely grated fresh parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp salt; cracked pepper; For The Sauce:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp butter; 2 tbsp garlic; 1¼ cup chicken broth; ½ cup half and half; ⅓ cup fresh parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp capers; 1 tsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Dive into the flavors of a creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata that perfectly balances zesty citrus and rich, savory notes. This dish offers a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite, making it a gourmet experience right at home. Serve it over pasta, steamed vegetables, or rice for a satisfying meal.

Photos of Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in every household pantry, such as capers, which add a unique tangy flavor, and half and half, a mixture of milk and cream that contributes to the dish's creamy texture. Make sure to pick these up at the supermarket to ensure the dish comes out as intended.

Ingredients For Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Chicken breasts: Large and boneless, these are the main protein source for the dish.

Flour: Used for dredging the chicken to create a light, crispy coating.

Parmesan cheese: Finely grated, it adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.

Salt: This enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Cracked pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Olive oil: Used to fry the chicken and start the sauce, contributing to the overall flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and helps in browning the chicken.

Garlic: Provides a fragrant and savory base for the sauce.

Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory umami flavor to the sauce.

Half and half: A blend of milk and cream to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Capers: These small, pickled buds add a burst of tangy flavor.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Lemon juice: Provides the zesty, citrusy undertone that makes piccata unique.

Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbal note and a fresh finish to the dish.

One reader, Elfrieda Valentine says:

This creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata recipe is a game-changer! The sauce is rich and tangy, perfectly complementing the tender chicken. Easy to make and absolutely delicious. A new family favorite!

Elfrieda Valentine

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

How to dredge chicken: Coat the chicken breasts in the flour and parmesan mixture, ensuring an even layer, and then shake off any excess coating. How to fry chicken: Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown on each side and no longer pink in the center. How to make a sauce: After frying the chicken, add garlic to the pan, then incorporate chicken broth and cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. How to thicken a sauce: Continue cooking the sauce gently after adding parmesan cheese and capers until it thickens. How to combine flavors: Add lemon juice to the sauce and simmer for an additional minute to meld the flavors together. How to serve: Return the chicken to the pan, allowing it to soak up the sauce, and then serve over pasta, vegetables, zucchini noodles, or rice, garnished with extra capers, lemon slices, and parsley.

How To Make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Parmesan cheese provides flavor to this fried chicken dish and served Piccata-style. You will love this creamy and slightly fragrant dish. Try it!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For The Chicken:

large chicken breasts,boneless and skinless, halved horizontally to make 4
2tbspflour,all purpose or plain
2tbspfinely grated fresh parmesan cheese
1tbspsalt
cracked pepper

For The Sauce:

1tbspolive oil
2tspbutter,or oil
2tbspgarlic,minced
1¼cup chicken broth,stock
½cuphalf and half,or heavy cream or evaporated milk
⅓cupfresh parmesan cheese,finely grated
2tbspcapers,plus 2 extra to garnish
1tspcornstarch,cornflour, mixed with 1 tbsp of water
3tbsplemon juice,juice of 1 lemon, adjust to your tastes
2tbspFresh Parsley

Instructions

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and parmesan cheese. Season the chicken with salt and pepper; dredge in the flour mixture; shake off excess and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil and 2 teaspoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter has melted and pan is hot.
Fry the chicken until golden on each side and cooked through and no longer pink for about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer onto a warm plate.
Add the garlic to the oil in the pan and fry until fragrant. Reduce heat to low-medium heat, add the broth and cream.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper to your taste; add in the parmesan cheese and capers. Continue cooking gently for about 2 minutes until thicker.
Pour in the lemon juice, allow to simmer for a further minute to combine.
Add the chicken back into the pan, allow to simmer gently in the sauce for about a minute to soak up all of the flavours in the sauce.
Serve with the sauce over pasta, steamed vegetables, zucchini noodles or rice. Top with extra capers to garnish, lemon slices and parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 208.39kcal
Fat: 14.23g
Saturated Fat: 6.92g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.70g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.86g
Carbohydrates: 10.92g
Fiber: 0.56g
Sugar: 3.00g
Protein: 9.82g
Cholesterol: 30.11mg
Sodium: 457.54mg
Calcium: 251.79mg
Potassium: 185.96mg
Iron: 0.70mg
Vitamin A: 89.97µg
Vitamin C: 8.89mg

Technique Tip for Achieving the Perfect Creamy Consistency

When dredging the chicken in the flour mixture, make sure to press the chicken firmly into the flour and parmesan cheese to ensure an even coating. This will help create a crispy, golden crust when frying.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Creamy Chicken Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Use thin chicken breasts: Thinly slice or pound the chicken breasts to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

Pre-grate cheese: Grate the parmesan cheese in advance to save time during cooking.

Multitask: While the chicken is cooking, start preparing the sauce ingredients to save time.

Use one pan: Cook the chicken and sauce in the same pan to reduce cleanup time.

Simmer efficiently: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to thicken it quickly without burning.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe

large chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, though they may require a bit more cooking time.
2 tbsp flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch provides a similar thickening effect and is gluten-free.
2 tbsp finely grated fresh parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly stronger flavor.
1 tbsp salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more nuanced flavor.
cracked pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder taste and a slightly different flavor profile.
1 tbsp olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
2 tsp butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a richer, nuttier flavor.
2 tbsp garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
1¼ cup chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
½ cup half and half - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a slight sweetness, though it will alter the flavor profile.
⅓ cup fresh parmesan cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere has a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that works well in sauces.
2 tbsp capers - Substitute with green olives: Green olives provide a similar briny flavor and can add a bit of texture.
1 tsp cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a gluten-free thickening agent that works similarly to cornstarch.
3 tbsp lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will slightly alter the taste.
2 tbsp fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the dish.

Best Way to Present Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken breasts sliced into elegant medallions, ensuring each piece is uniformly cut to showcase the golden crust.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with thin lemon slices and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Layer the sauce: Drizzle the creamy lemon parmesan sauce artistically over the chicken medallions, allowing some to pool around the base for visual appeal and flavor integration.
Add texture: Scatter a few extra capers on top of the chicken and sauce to add a pop of briny flavor and a contrasting texture.
Complementary sides: Serve the dish with a small portion of zucchini noodles or steamed vegetables, arranged neatly to one side, enhancing the plate's visual balance and nutritional value.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small mound of freshly grated parmesan cheese on the side of the plate, allowing diners to add an extra touch of richness to their liking.
Final touch: Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil over the entire dish to add a subtle sheen and enhance the flavors.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Shallow bowl: Used to combine the flour and parmesan cheese for dredging the chicken.
Large skillet: Essential for frying the chicken and making the sauce.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken while frying and for transferring it to a plate.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring ingredients like flour, butter, and lemon juice.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth, half and half, and parmesan cheese.
Grater: For finely grating fresh parmesan cheese.
Knife: Needed for chopping garlic and parsley.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping garlic and parsley.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the sauce ingredients together smoothly.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn't stick to the pan.
Plate: To transfer the cooked chicken onto while you make the sauce.
Serving dish: For presenting the finished dish with the sauce.
Lemon squeezer: Helps extract fresh lemon juice efficiently.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the sides of the skillet and ensuring all the sauce is mixed well.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Allow the chicken piccata to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken piccata:
- Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- If using a zip-top bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken piccata overnight in the refrigerator.
Transfer the thawed chicken and sauce to a skillet or saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen and thawed chicken piccata to maintain food safety and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Piccata

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken piccata in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. This method helps to maintain the crispy texture of the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help loosen up the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is warm.
Reheat in the microwave: transfer the leftover chicken piccata to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is warm. Be sure to stir the sauce and check the temperature of the chicken before serving.
Repurpose leftovers: slice the leftover chicken piccata and use it as a topping for a salad or as a filling for a sandwich. The creamy lemon parmesan sauce can be used as a dressing for the salad or a spread for the sandwich, adding a delightful flavor to your lunch.
Freeze for later: if you have a large amount of leftover chicken piccata, consider freezing it for a future meal. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken piccata in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using one of the methods mentioned above.

Random Fact about Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Random Fact

Chicken piccata is an Italian-American dish that traditionally features chicken breasts dredged in flour and sautéed in a sauce made with lemon juice, butter, and capers. The addition of parmesan cheese and cream in this recipe adds a rich, creamy texture that enhances the classic flavors.

Is Making Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata at Home Cost-Effective?

The creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, parmesan cheese, and lemon are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of chicken broth and half and half adds richness without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $20-$25.

Is This Creamy Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from the chicken breasts
Garlic, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may boost immunity
Lemon juice, a good source of vitamin C
Parsley, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamins

However, there are some less healthy components:

The dish is high in saturated fat due to the butter, half and half, and parmesan cheese
It contains a significant amount of sodium from the added salt and capers
The flour used for dredging the chicken adds refined carbohydrates

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fat
Replace the half and half with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt
Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on herbs and spices for flavor
Opt for whole wheat flour or almond flour for dredging the chicken to increase fiber and nutrient content
Serve the dish with a generous portion of steamed vegetables to boost the overall nutritional value of the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata while also supporting your health and well-being.

Editor's Thoughts on This Lemon Parmesan Chicken Dish

This creamy lemon parmesan chicken piccata recipe is a delightful fusion of rich and tangy flavors. The combination of parmesan-infused chicken and a luscious lemony sauce creates a perfect balance. The capers add a briny punch, while the fresh parsley provides a refreshing finish. The use of half and half ensures a creamy texture without being overly heavy. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta or vegetables, making it versatile for various occasions. Overall, it's a sophisticated yet approachable recipe that promises to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of potatoes mashed to perfection, infused with a hint of garlic. This side dish will soak up the luscious lemon parmesan sauce and complement the chicken piccata beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp, tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and sprinkled with a touch of lemon zest. This side dish adds a refreshing, zesty contrast to the rich, creamy flavors of the main course.

Herb-Infused Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with a medley of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. This light and nutritious side dish will balance the richness of the creamy chicken piccata.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Golden-brown brussels sprouts roasted until crispy and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to your meal.

Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Almonds: A hearty wild rice pilaf mixed with dried cranberries and toasted almonds. This side dish offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken piccata.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs: Indulge in the rich flavors of garlic and butter with these succulent chicken thighs. Perfectly seared and then baked to perfection, this dish is a delightful main course that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Experience the zesty and aromatic blend of lemon and herbs in this grilled chicken recipe. Marinated to infuse every bite with flavor, this dish is ideal for a summer barbecue or a light dinner served with grilled vegetables.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Transport your taste buds to Tuscany with this creamy chicken dish. Featuring sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is a comforting and elegant meal that pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread.

Chicken Marsala: Savor the classic Italian flavors of marsala wine and mushrooms in this elegant chicken dish. Perfect for a special dinner, this recipe is best served with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Enjoy the crispy and cheesy goodness of parmesan-crusted chicken. Coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, this dish is baked to golden perfection and pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. The filling can be a delightful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Add a touch of parmesan cheese for that extra savory kick. Bake until golden and bubbly, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese or a few slices of avocado. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also a delightful burst of freshness in every bite.

Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Pie: Imagine a luscious, tangy lemon curd nestled in a buttery, flaky pie crust, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The lemon curd provides a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, while the meringue adds a light, airy texture. Serve this delightful treat chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Garnish with a twist of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrusy aroma.

Tiramisu: Indulge in layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and rich, creamy mascarpone cheese, dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder. This classic Italian dessert offers a perfect harmony of coffee and cream, making it an elegant finish to any meal. The espresso adds a deep, robust flavor, while the mascarpone provides a velvety smooth texture. Serve chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, and garnish with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an added touch of decadence.

Why trust this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and capers to create a delightful dish. The use of fresh parsley and garlic enhances the taste, making it a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home. The creamy sauce, made with half and half and chicken broth, ensures a luscious texture that perfectly complements the chicken. Trust this recipe for its balanced ingredients and straightforward instructions, promising a delicious and satisfying experience.

Have you tried this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Piccata Recipe? Let us know how it turned out and share your own tips or variations in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it's golden on the outside and no longer pink in the center. You can also use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of parmesan?

While parmesan adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago. Just keep in mind the taste will be slightly different.

What can I use instead of half and half?

If you don't have half and half, you can use a mix of equal parts milk and heavy cream. Alternatively, you can use just heavy cream for a richer sauce or just milk for a lighter one.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving. Add a splash of broth or cream to the sauce if it thickens too much.

What sides go well with this dish?

This chicken piccata pairs well with pasta, steamed vegetables, zucchini noodles, or rice. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.