Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

There’s something magical about the combination of zesty lemon and fragrant basil that can transport you straight to a sun-soaked Italian terrace, glass of wine in hand. Imagine tender chicken breasts, lightly sautéed until golden brown, then bathed in a bright, tangy lemon sauce with a hint of garlicyour taste buds are dancing already. This Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is not just a dish it’s an experience that can turn any ordinary weekday into a delightful culinary adventure.

Every time I whip up this recipe, I’m reminded of my Aunt Linda’s kitchen, where laughter and the smell of fresh herbs mingled in the air. It was our go-to dish for family gatherings, making everyone feel like they were part of something special. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an elaborate celebration with friends, this dish shines brightly on any table. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave your guests begging for seconds.

I remember the first time I made this dish my friends proclaimed me a culinary genius (not sure about that). They couldn’t get enough

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 pieces for a satisfying meal. Choose ones that are plump and fresh.
• Fresh Basil: Use fragrant leaves to bring out the best flavor look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves add depth opt for firm ones that pack a punch in flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best it gives the dish its zesty kick and bright acidity.
• Chicken Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding richness to the sauce.
• Capers: These little gems add briny bursts of flavor rinse them to cut down on excess salt.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin is preferred for its fruity undertones use it generously when cooking the chicken.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning helps amplify all the other flavors in your dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil until it’s shimmeringa sign it’s ready.

Prepare the chicken: Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Brown them in the hot skillet about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.

Sauté garlic: Once chicken is done, remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrantabout 30 secondsbe careful not to let it burn

Create the sauce: Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chicken broth while scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of your pan.

Add capers and herbs: Stir in capers and chopped basil let everything simmer together for about 3-4 minutes so those flavors meld together beautifully.

Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece generously. Allow everything to cook together for another minutethis is where magic happens

Serve with style: Plate your Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata over pasta or rice, drizzling extra sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy.

And just like that, you’ve created a memorable meal that dazzles both visually and flavor-wise Enjoy every bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in moisture, then prepare the sauce while it cooks for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add capers for an extra zing that elevates the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on low heat to preserve texture and moisture.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of the first time I made it for friends their smiles said it all as they devoured every last bite.

FAQ

What can I serve with zesty lemon basil chicken piccata?

Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that truly elevates the dish.

How long does leftover chicken piccata last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a vibrant lemon-basil sauce. This recipe is perfect for transforming a simple weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. With its refreshing flavors and aromatic ingredients, you’ll feel like you’re dining on an Italian terrace. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the olive oil.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear in the skillet for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Stir in capers and chopped basil; let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece, and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve over pasta or rice with extra sauce drizzled on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 90mg