The ultimate guide to chicken piccata prep: can you make it the day before?
What To Know
- Preparing chicken piccata the day before allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of cooking at the last minute.
- You can save precious time by prepping and cooking the chicken and sauce in advance, leaving only the final assembly on the day of serving.
- Store the chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken piccata, an Italian classic, is a delectable dish that tantalizes taste buds with its crispy chicken, tangy lemon sauce, and aromatic capers. While this culinary masterpiece is often prepared fresh, many home cooks wonder, “Can you make chicken piccata the day before?” The answer is a resounding yes! With careful preparation and storage, you can enjoy the flavors of chicken piccata without the last-minute hassle.
Benefits of Making Chicken Piccata the Day Before
- Convenience: Preparing chicken piccata the day before allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of cooking at the last minute.
- Time-saving: You can save precious time by prepping and cooking the chicken and sauce in advance, leaving only the final assembly on the day of serving.
- Flavor enhancement: Allowing the chicken and sauce to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
How to Make Chicken Piccata the Day Before
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Add the capers and parsley: Stir in the capers and parsley.
5. Combine the chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Store: Allow the chicken piccata to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheating Chicken Piccata
To reheat chicken piccata, follow these steps:
1. Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
2. Stovetop: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken piccata and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
3. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken piccata in an oven-safe dish and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Tips for Storing Chicken Piccata
- Store the chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Do not store the chicken piccata with the sauce. Store the sauce separately in an airtight container.
- If you are freezing the chicken piccata, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Variations on Chicken Piccata
- Lemon-herb chicken piccata: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano or thyme to the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomato chicken piccata: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Spinach chicken piccata: Add 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken piccata pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
- Pasta
- Rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
Final Thoughts
Making chicken piccata the day before is a convenient and time-saving way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these simple steps, you can prepare a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests. So next time you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to make chicken piccata the day before and savor the flavors of this culinary masterpiece at your convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for chicken piccata?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: What can I substitute for capers?
A: You can substitute chopped olives or chopped gherkins for capers.
Q: Can I make chicken piccata without white wine?
A: Yes, you can omit the white wine if desired. The sauce will still be flavorful.
Q: How can I make a gluten-free version of chicken piccata?
A: Use gluten-free flour to dredge the chicken and cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Q: Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time and freeze it?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken piccata for up to 3 months. Thaw it completely before reheating.
