Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that has become a staple in many kitchens worldwide. This delicious and savory dish is made with chicken breasts that are pounded thin, then sautéed and topped with a tangy, lemon-butter sauce. But what is Chicken Piccata and exactly what makes it so irresistible?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients that go into making Chicken Piccata and explore the flavors and textures that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Chicken Breast
The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken breast. Chicken Piccata is traditionally made using boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pounded thin to ensure even cooking. This also creates a tender and juicy texture that is easy to cut through.
Flour Coating
Before cooking the chicken, it is usually dredged in flour. This not only helps to create a crispy outer layer but also helps to thicken the sauce later on in the cooking process.
Lemon Juice
One of the key components of the sauce is lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is used to create a tangy, acidic flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and buttery sauce. The acidity in the lemon juice also helps to cut through the richness of the butter, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
Butter
Butter is another important component of the sauce. The butter is melted in the pan and combined with the lemon juice, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats the chicken. It is important to use unsalted butter to ensure that the dish does not become too salty.
Capers
Capers are a small, tangy berry that is used in many Mediterranean dishes. They add a distinct briny flavor to the sauce, which pairs well with the lemon and butter. Capers also add a textural element to the dish, creating a slight crunch that is a nice contrast to the tender chicken.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is used to deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken. This not only helps to remove any browned bits from the pan but also helps to create a flavorful base for the sauce. The chicken broth is combined with the lemon juice and butter, creating a rich and savory sauce that is the perfect accompaniment to the chicken.
Parsley
Fresh parsley is often used as a garnish for Chicken Piccata. It adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, and also helps to balance out the flavors of the sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Piccata is a delicious and classic Italian dish that combines savory chicken with a tangy and creamy lemon-butter sauce. The dish is made with simple ingredients such as chicken breast, flour, lemon juice, butter, capers, chicken broth, and parsley, but when combined, they create a complex and flavorful dish that is hard to resist. Chicken piccata calories are also moderate.
So next time you are looking for a meal that is both impressive and easy to make, give Chicken Piccata a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
