Healthy Chicken Piccata

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner while keeping it healthy, look no further than this delightful Healthy Chicken Piccata. This dish is all about balancing flavor with nutrition, featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a tangy lemon-caper sauce. Serve it over a bed of angel hair pasta or enjoy it on its own for a light meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Healthy Chicken Piccata is a standout recipe for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of zesty lemon, savory capers, and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a lighter version of the classic dish, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. The use of Greek yogurt adds creaminess without excess calories, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredient Notes

• Boneless skinless chicken cutlets: About 1.25 lbs of chicken, pounded thin for even cooking and tenderness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken to enhance the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Used to lightly coat the chicken, giving it a crispy exterior when cooked.
• Olive oil: A healthier fat option for sautéing the chicken.
• Garlic: Freshly minced to add a robust flavor to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce; low-sodium is preferred for a healthier option.
• Fresh lemon juice: Essential for that bright, tangy flavor characteristic of piccata.
• Capers: Adds a briny punch that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Just a tablespoon adds richness to the sauce.
• Plain Greek yogurt: A healthier substitute for heavy cream, adding creaminess without the calories.
• Angel hair pasta: Optional, but a delicious way to serve the dish.
• Sliced lemons: For garnish and an extra pop of citrus.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped for a vibrant garnish and additional flavor.

Gear Checklist

• Meat mallet: For pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
• Large skillet: To cook the chicken and sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To flip the chicken and stir the sauce.
• Serving platter: For presenting your beautiful dish.

Healthy Chicken Piccata in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

Spread the all-purpose flour on a plate. Lightly coat each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will help to create a nice crust when cooked.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Sauté for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the fresh lemon juice and capers, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Stir in the unsalted butter and Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Step 6: Serve

If desired, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Serve the chicken piccata over the pasta or on its own, garnished with sliced lemons and chopped parsley.

Smart Substitutions

• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content in the dish.
• Swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• If you prefer a different protein, try this recipe with thinly sliced turkey cutlets or even shrimp.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Don’t skip pounding the chicken; this ensures even cooking and tenderness.
• Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet when sautéing the chicken; this can cause steaming instead of browning.
• Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to develop flavor; rushing this step can lead to a bland sauce.
• Measure your lemon juice carefully; too much can overpower the dish.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Healthy Chicken Piccata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve made the dish with pasta, it’s best to store the pasta separately to avoid it becoming mushy. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Ask & Learn

Can I make Healthy Chicken Piccata in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Healthy Chicken Piccata?

While it’s delicious on its own, you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a nice bed of angel hair pasta.

Can I freeze Healthy Chicken Piccata?

It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Make sure to cool them completely before transferring to freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

How can I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply double the ingredients while keeping the cooking method the same. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

You Might Also Like

• Healthy Chicken Fajitas
• Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
• Easy Chickpea Curry
• One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the recipe for Healthy Chicken Piccata, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its light yet satisfying flavors and quick preparation time, you’ll find yourself making this meal again and again. So, don your apron, and let’s make a delicious, healthy dinner that everyone will love!