Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata, a quick and elegant dish that features tender chicken breasts seared to perfection in a bright lemon and basil sauce. This crowd-pleaser elevates any dinner with its aromatic blend of fresh ingredients, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 2 large lemons)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp capers
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Season and Sear: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add lemon juice, capers, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped basil just before serving; allow sauce to simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Combine & Serve: Return chicken to skillet to coat in sauce; simmer for an additional minute before plating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Searing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 6 oz)
Calories: 330
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For an added twist, substitute basil with parsley or oregano. Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.