Description
Hello food lovers! If you’re on the lookout for a dish that is both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, then you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Zesty Lemon Chicken Piccata—a dish that perfectly balances tangy lemon with savory chicken, creating a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe will add a touch of gourmet flair to your dinner table. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
8 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)1/2 cup egg substitute2 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth, divided5 tablespoons lemon juice, divided3 garlic cloves, minced1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce1/2 cup all-purpose flour1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese1/4 cup minced fresh parsley1/2 teaspoon salt3 teaspoons olive oil, divided2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Flatten the Chicken: Start by flattening the chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness. This helps ensure even cooking and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the egg substitute, 2 tablespoons of wine, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot pepper sauce. In another shallow dish, mix together the flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and salt.
- Coat the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg substitute mixture, and coat it again with the flour mixture. This double coating gives the chicken a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Brown 4 chicken breast halves for 3-5 minutes on each side or until the juices run clear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. Drain the drippings and repeat the process with the remaining chicken and oil.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the remaining wine and lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a boil. Boil, uncovered, until the sauce is reduced by a fourth. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken before serving.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet it offers a complexity of flavors that even seasoned cooks will appreciate. Remember, the key to a perfect Zesty Lemon Chicken Piccata is to not rush the cooking process—allow the sauce to reduce properly to concentrate the flavors.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, be careful not to overcook it. Flattening the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly.
- Adjust the Sauce to Taste: If you prefer a tangier sauce, you can add more lemon juice. Conversely, if you like a milder flavor, reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a bit more butter to balance the acidity.