Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata
Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals
Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors of Meyer lemon in this classic chicken piccata recipe that's perfect for any occasion.
This Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dish. The addition of Meyer lemons adds a unique sweetness and floral note that elevates the flavors, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor from Meyer lemons
- Tender chicken coated in a light, flavorful sauce
- Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners
- A delicious way to impress your guests
The Magic of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a sweeter, less acidic flavor profile than traditional lemons. Their vibrant yellow skin and fragrant aroma make them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. When incorporated into dishes like chicken piccata, they infuse a unique brightness that elevates the entire meal. This recipe showcases the distinct flavor of Meyer lemons, making every bite a refreshing experience.
In addition to their delicious taste, Meyer lemons are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin vitality. Their zest can also be used to enhance the flavor of desserts and marinades, showcasing their versatility. If you haven't tried cooking with Meyer lemons yet, this chicken piccata recipe is the perfect introduction.
A Simple Yet Elegant Meal
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian dish known for its simplicity and elegance. This recipe takes that classic approach and adds a citrus twist with Meyer lemons. The tender chicken, combined with a light sauce of chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers, creates a dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to prepare. It's perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings.
One of the best aspects of this dish is its quick cooking time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, serving this dish will surely impress your guests, making it a go-to recipe for entertaining.
Ingredients
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 unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, Meyer lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve immediately with pasta or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Meyer lemon chicken piccata pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad tossed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light, complementary dish. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter pasta can soak up the delicious sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
If you're looking for a vegetarian option to accompany this dish, roasted vegetables or a medley of sautéed greens can bring color and nutrition to your table. These options not only balance the meal but also enhance the visual appeal of your plate, creating a dining experience that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Meyer lemon chicken piccata can be refrigerated for up to three days. To store, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheating is simple—just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors continue to meld when stored, making leftovers just as delightful. You can also repurpose the chicken into a delicious salad or sandwich for lunch the next day, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and you get to enjoy this zesty dish even longer.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, regular lemons can be used, but the flavor will be more tart.
→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the chicken.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Meyer Lemon Chicken Piccata
Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors of Meyer lemon in this classic chicken piccata recipe that's perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Clean & Simple Meals
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 unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, Meyer lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce heat and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 28g