Name: Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced and pounded to ½-inch thick); ½ cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour); Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup chicken stock; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced or smashed; 1 ½ tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped; 6 tablespoons butter (or use olive oil); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Lemon slices, for garnish; Chopped fresh parsley

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If you’re looking to infuse your dinner table with the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean, then look no further than this Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata! This dish is not only simple to make but also bursts with vibrancy and zest, thanks to the perfect combination of lemon, garlic, and capers. With golden, seared chicken breasts drizzled in a sumptuous lemon-caper sauce, each bite is a celebration of taste. Whether serving this meal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it promises to impress everyone at the table.

This Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata offers not just great flavor, but also a healthy way to enjoy chicken! With almond flour giving it a light crust, and a sauce made from wholesome ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty. Packed with protein and brightened by fresh herbs, it’s an ideal option for anyone seeking a balanced meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata

Here are just a few reasons why this recipe should be on your dinner rotation:

Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and capers provides an explosion of flavor that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Quick and Easy: This meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
Healthy Option: With wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from salads to starches.
A Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this dish, so it’s great for families.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. First, ensure your chicken breasts are at room temperature to cook evenly. You’ll also want to have a good quality skillet ready for searing the chicken—a non-stick version is particularly useful to avoid sticking. This recipe requires just a few tools: a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for slicing the chicken breasts. Don’t forget measuring spoons and cups to ensure your ingredients are accurate! Prepping your ingredients ahead of time, like measuring out the lemon juice or chopping the garlic and capers, will streamline the cooking process.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced and pounded to ½-inch thick)
½ cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup chicken stock
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced or smashed
1 ½ tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
6 tablespoons butter (or use olive oil)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Lemon slices, for garnish
Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half to create thinner pieces. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and quickly. Once sliced, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½-inch. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chicken remains tender and cooks uniformly. After pounding, season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, lightly coat each piece of seasoned chicken with almond flour (or whole wheat flour). This flour will create a lovely crust when searing the chicken. Be sure to shake off any excess flour to avoid a too-thick crust.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The mix of fats not only enhances flavor but also helps to achieve a nice golden color on the chicken. Once the butter is hot and bubbling, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds. Next, pour in the fresh lemon juice and chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to incorporate the flavorful bits left from the chicken. Add the chopped capers and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

After the sauce has simmered, return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Allow it to simmer gently for an additional 2–5 minutes to heat through. By doing this, the chicken absorbs the sauce’s flavors, resulting in a delightful dish.

Variations

Protein: This recipe can easily be adapted for different proteins. Feel free to swap out chicken for pork or even thin slices of turkey for a different take.
Vegetables: Add in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes for added flavor and nutrients. You can toss them into the sauce while simmering.
Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to create a twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick!

Cooking Notes

Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
For a lighter sauce, replace butter with additional olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata pairs excellently with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of whole wheat pasta or quinoa, soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Tips

Always taste your sauce before serving, adjusting seasoning as necessary and adding a touch more lemon juice for brightness.
If you want a creamier sauce, whisk in a touch of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for capers?

If you don’t have capers, chopped green olives can make a suitable alternative, albeit with a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Style Chicken Piccata is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and warmth that echoes the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean. With its simple preparation and impressive results, this dish deserves a spot in your regular cooking repertoire. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or to impress guests on a special occasion, you’ll love its ease and the chorus of flavors it brings. We’d love to hear your thoughts after trying this recipe! Share your experiences, tips, or any variations you tried. Happy cooking!