Craving chicken piccata? unravel the secret recipe from omaha steaks

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Chicken Piccata, a classic Italian dish that combines the delicate taste of chicken with a tangy lemon-butter sauce. Omaha Steaks, renowned for their exceptional quality, offers premium chicken breasts that are perfect for creating this culinary masterpiece.

Selecting the Perfect Chicken Breasts

Omaha Steaks offers a wide range of chicken breasts to choose from, each with its unique characteristics. For Chicken Piccata, we recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are about 6 ounces each. These breasts are tender and juicy, ensuring a flavorful and succulent dish.

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

Before cooking the chicken, it’s crucial to prepare it properly. Season the breasts with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour. This coating will help the chicken brown evenly and create a crispy crust.

Cooking the Chicken Piccata

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Creating the Lemon-Butter Sauce

The lemon-butter sauce is the heart of Chicken Piccata. In the same skillet, add white wine and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half. Stir in unsalted butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Adding the Capers and Parsley

Capers and parsley add a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish. Add capers and chopped fresh parsley to the lemon-butter sauce and stir to combine.

Plating and Serving

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the lemon-butter sauce over them. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Piccata

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor.
• Season the chicken liberally with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor.
• Dredge the chicken in flour before cooking to create a crispy crust.
• Cook the chicken over medium heat to prevent burning.
• Reduce the white wine and lemon juice by half before adding the butter to create a concentrated flavor.
• Serve the Chicken Piccata immediately to enjoy the crispy chicken and flavorful sauce.

Variations on Chicken Piccata

• Add artichoke hearts: For a more complex flavor, add canned or marinated artichoke hearts to the skillet along with the capers.
• Use a different citrus fruit: Instead of lemon juice, try using orange juice or lime juice for a unique twist.
• Add some heat: If you prefer a spicy dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon-butter sauce.
• Make it creamy: For a richer flavor, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream to the lemon-butter sauce.
• Broil the chicken: After cooking the chicken in the skillet, transfer it to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes to create a crispy crust.

Health Benefits of Chicken Piccata

While Chicken Piccata is a delicious dish, it also offers several health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of protein, which helps build and repair tissues.
• Low in fat: Omaha Steaks’ boneless, skinless chicken breasts are low in fat, making them a healthier choice.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals: Chicken breasts contain important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.
• Antioxidant properties: Capers contain antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Chicken Piccata?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir to form a paste. Add the slurry to the simmering sauce and stir until thickened.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Chicken Piccata?
A: Some popular side dishes to serve with Chicken Piccata include pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.