Last Updated on February 26, 2024
Although none of us wants to devote more than 45 minutes or so to getting dinner on the table during the workweek, we still want to eat well. In Sara Moulton Cooks at Home, I included “ four quick chicken recipes” that all start with the same easy prep and become entirely different entrees once the sauce ingredients are added. This is one of them.
Thin slices lemon and chopped parsley for garnish
Serves 4
Sprinkle a small amount of water on a large sheet of plastic wrap. Place 2 of the breast halves on top of the plastic and sprinkle again with water. Cover with another sheet of plastic wrap and pound with a rolling pin or meat pounder until about 1/4-inch thick. Repeat with the remaining 2 breast halves.
Mix the flour with the salt and pepper in a shallow pie plate. Heat half the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until almost smoking. Working in 2 batches, place the chicken in the flour mixture and turn to coat on all sides Shake off the excess flour and add to the skillet. Cook until lightly browned and cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate or platter and cover loosely with foil. Repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.
Pour off the fat from the skillet and return the skillet to the heat. Add the chicken stock and lemon juice. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil, stirring to pick up any browned bits in the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 3 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer, turning often, until warmed through and the sauce is thickened, about 2 minutes. Add the butter and the capers. Season with salt and pepper and heat just until the butter has melted. Serve on warmed plates with a spoonful of the skillet sauce, topped with lemon slices and parsley.
Love your PBS shows!
Like your no nonsense easy approach style of cooking….
I have cooked many of your recipes and I have never been disappointed. Thank you!
OMG! This was a huge hit when I made it. I will be making it again tonight. Such an easy and quick delicious meal. Thank you! I love making your recipes Sara.
Can this recipe be frozen
Yes, Just reheat it gently.
I have a first edition “Sara Moulton Cooks at Home” from 2002. This is the first recipe book that my husband gifted to me when we discovered the Food Network.
I have made this piccata for dinner numerous times over the past 20 years. It was a hit the first time and every time in between. When it’s the reply to “What’s the plan for dinner?”, my family is in Heaven.
Anyone even new to cooking can try it and feel very successful. It’s delicious and it will be loved when you serve it.
Thank you, Sara!