Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a luxurious take on the classic Italian-American dish, delivering perfectly seared chicken breasts smothered in a silky lemon cream sauce with bursts of briny capers. It’s quick, elegant, and incredibly satisfying — a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a dinner party centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules
• Combines tangy lemon with rich cream for a flavor-packed sauce
• The capers add a burst of umami that balances the creaminess
• Can be paired with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a full meal
• Restaurant-quality results with minimal effort

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 2 lemons
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup capers, drained
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: cooked angel hair pasta, for serving

directions

this recipe

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour, shaking off excess.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the capers. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2 more minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, optionally over pasta.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option
• For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with unsweetened coconut cream
• Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour for dredging
• Add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach to the sauce for extra veggies
• Lighten the dish by replacing cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed
• Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate

FAQs

What is the difference between classic and creamy chicken piccata?

Classic piccata has a lemon-butter sauce, while the creamy version includes heavy cream for a richer texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

What can I substitute for capers?

Chopped green olives or a small amount of chopped pickles can offer a similar briny flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat.

Can I prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Reheat gently and combine when ready to serve.

What’s the best type of cream to use?

Heavy cream is best for a rich and stable sauce. Lighter alternatives may curdle when mixed with lemon.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water).

Can I serve this with rice instead of pasta?

Absolutely, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables all pair beautifully with the sauce.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony cream sauce well.

Can I make this in one pan?

Yes, everything can be cooked in the same skillet, making cleanup simple.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and elegant enough for guests. With its golden pan-seared chicken and tangy, creamy sauce, it brings bold flavors and satisfying texture to your table. Serve it with your favorite side and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from your own kitchen.

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