Chicken Picatta
Tender chicken cutlets are coated in seasoned flour, sautéed to golden perfection, then served with a tangy lemon caper sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge chicken in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat margarine and oil in a large skillet in a single layer.
- Add chicken; sauté until brown and cooked through (3 to 4 minutes). Remove to a dish and keep warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. If you don’t have margarine, butter or olive oil can be used for sautéing. Adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after browning the chicken can enhance the flavor. Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness, so use freshly squeezed if possible.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Picatta over a bed of fresh spinach pasta toss for a delightful pairing. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad complements the dish nicely. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices for presentation. This dish also pairs beautifully with chicken recipes that feature lemon and capers.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Picatta contains roughly 950 calories, with 36g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and protein (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast cutlets?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breast cutlets for a richer flavor and juicier texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through compared to breast cutlets.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use lime juice as an alternative. Vinegar, particularly white wine or apple cider vinegar, can also provide a similar acidity, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While Chicken Picatta is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and reheat the sauce. This allows for quick assembly while maintaining the dish's flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).