Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

Name: Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 large lemons (juiced); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp capers, drained; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: March 27, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The zesty lemon basil chicken piccata is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners easy and enjoyable
Its bright flavors tantalize taste buds while its beautiful presentation steals the show
This dish is versatile enough for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties
Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be made in under 30 minutes

I once served this zesty lemon basil chicken piccata at a family gathering, and let me tell you everyone went back for seconds My Uncle Joe even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is saying something coming from him.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Basil: Opt for vibrant green leaves they add both flavor and color to your dish.
Fresh Lemons: Choose juicy lemons for that punchy zest nothing beats fresh over bottled juice
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor skip the pre-minced stuff if you can.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
Capers: These little gems provide a delightful briny contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing it adds depth and richness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all flavor profiles in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients so everything is ready when it’s time to cook. Chop the basil and mince the garlic before moving on

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot pan. Sear until golden brown on both sides.

Add Garlic & Capers: Once your chicken is beautifully browned (about 5 minutes per side), toss in minced garlic and capers. Cook until fragrant your kitchen will smell heavenly

Create the Sauce: Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring this divine concoction to a simmer while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

Add Fresh Basil & Thicken Up: Just as your sauce starts bubbling away, stir in chopped fresh basil. Let it simmer for another few minutes until slightly thickened this is where magic happens

Serve It Up: Plate your zesty lemon basil chicken piccata with a generous drizzle of sauce over each serving. Serve alongside some pasta or veggies for an unforgettable meal.

Now you’ve successfully created an extraordinary dish that will have everyone asking for more Enjoy every bite of this culinary delight your taste buds deserve it

You Must Know

This zesty lemon basil chicken piccata effortlessly brightens any dinner table, offering a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors
The aroma of fresh basil and lemon zest will have your taste buds dancing, while the easy preparation makes it an ideal weeknight meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy chicken and a flavorful sauce, start by searing the chicken first. While it’s cooking, you can prepare the sauce and pasta to maximize efficiency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. Adding capers or sun-dried tomatoes can also elevate the dish’s complexity.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent dryness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To get that golden crispiness, ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken
For extra flavor, let your chicken marinate in lemon juice for 30 minutes ahead of cooking
Always taste your sauce before serving adjust seasoning as needed

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friend’s birthday dinner when I first made this dish. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary rockstar

FAQ

Can I use other herbs instead of basil?

Yes, fresh parsley or thyme can complement the dish beautifully.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with almond flour or cornstarch for gluten-free options.

What can I serve with zesty lemon basil chicken piccata?

Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or a light salad for a complete meal.

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📖 Recipe Card