Veal Or Chicken Piccata
Veal or chicken piccata features tender meat in a tangy lemon and white wine sauce, finished with fresh parsley—an elegant dish perfect for any special or weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut veal or chicken into serving size pieces.
- Coat each piece with flour.
- Heat butter in a skillet.
- Add meat and cook over fairly high heat until lightly brown on both sides.
- If not enough room in skillet for all the meat, sauté and remove until all meat is cooked.
- Return all meat to the pan.
- Squeeze half of the lemon over the meat.
- Add the wine and stir gently.
- Cook about 1 minute.
- Remove to a warm platter and garnish with lemon slices and parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute chicken breasts with veal scaloppine. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding capers or olives. Ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the meat. Fresh lemon juice is key; use it to brighten the dish, and for a twist, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the piccata over a bed of pasta or alongside a fresh Italian salad like Italian Tortellini Salad for a balanced meal. A crisp white wine pairs wonderfully, enhancing the lemony sauce. For a more substantial side, consider garlic bread or a simple vegetable medley, which complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Microwaving is also an option, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veal Or Chicken Piccata contains roughly 148 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the veal with chicken or even turkey. Each option will bring its own unique flavor, but ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What should I serve with veal or chicken piccata?
This dish pairs beautifully with a light pasta, such as spaghetti or angel hair, or even a fresh salad. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, which can balance the tanginess of the piccata sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the meat and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. This way, you'll save time while still enjoying a delicious meal.
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).