Lemon Caper Chicken
Tender chicken breasts are coated in spices, then cooked to perfection and topped with a tangy lemon-caper sauce, making it a flavorful, bright dish ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, paprika, and pepper on a plate.
- Press chicken breasts into the mixture, coating evenly, then shake off excess.
- In a heavy 10-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 3 minutes on each side.
- Remove chicken from skillet and place on a heated platter.
- Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in lemon juice and capers, then heat through.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter coating, consider using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour. If you don't have capers, green olives can be a delightful substitute. To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden crust. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Citrus Chicken for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon Caper Chicken over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the dish well. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of pasta. This recipe is also perfect for meal prep, as it holds up well for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Lemon Caper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, and cover to heat through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Caper Chicken contains roughly 447 calories, with 15g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (274% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), and iron (120% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 35g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in pieces generally require longer cooking times. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of seasoning can work as a substitute. For added flavor, consider using white wine or a mix of water and soy sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Lemon Caper Chicken gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure all other ingredients, such as chicken broth, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
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).