Main Course
Piccata-Style Baked Chicken
This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon and caper sauce for a bright, flavorful meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels a little special.
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40 min
Total Time
♜
4
Servings
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Medium
Difficulty
Ingredients
4
servings
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Instructions
1
Step 1
Start by mixing some lukewarm water with salt in a big bowl, stirring until the salt dissolves. Pop the chicken cutlets in and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. When they're done, take them out and pat them dry—discard the brine.
2
Step 2
Season each cutlet with a bit of salt and pepper, then coat them lightly in flour, shaking off any extra. Set them aside on a plate while you get ready to cook.
3
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet, melt half the butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is foamy and the oil is shimmering. Cook four of the cutlets for about 3 minutes on each side until they're golden brown, then transfer them to your baking dish. Repeat with the rest.
4
Step 4
Pop the chicken in the oven and bake until it’s cooked through—about 10 minutes. You’re looking for no pink in the center and clear juices; if you have a thermometer, it should read 165°F (74°C).
5
Step 5
While the chicken bakes, use the same skillet to make the sauce. Turn the heat back up to medium-high and pour in the chicken stock, lemon juice, and capers. Scrape up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the remaining butter a tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly, until the sauce is nice and smooth—this should take about 4 minutes.
6
Step 6
Once the chicken is ready, drizzle that tangy sauce all over the top and serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory capers that brighten up tender, juicy chicken. It’s easy to prepare and bakes quickly, making it great for busy weeknights. The flavors are fresh and vibrant without being overpowering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a light meal. It also pairs well with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A crusty bread on the side is great for mopping up any extra lemon-caper juices.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken. This dish can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.
