Imagine a dish that transports you straight to a charming Italian trattoria, where every bite is a perfect harmony of tangy, savory flavors. This Chicken with Lemon Caper Sauce is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that will elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few simple ingredients and easy techniques, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup capers
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better browning.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Spread the flour on a shallow plate and dredge each chicken breast, coating evenly and shaking off any excess flour.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the floured chicken breasts into the hot skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate, tenting with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the breasts to reheat and coat.
- Transfer the chicken to serving plates and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Don't rush the browning process—medium-high heat and patience create the best crust.
- Fresh lemon juice makes a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled juice.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Choose firm, plump capers for the best texture and brightest flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness.
- Garnish with fresh parsley right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 142kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
