Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp capers; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 8, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata is super easy to whip up in under 30 minutes
The vibrant flavors will brighten any weeknight dinner
Visually appealing with its golden chicken and bright sauce, it’s sure to impress
Perfectly versatile, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple salad

One night, after serving this dish, my friend declared it was better than her favorite restaurant’s version — no pressure there!

Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well here; adjust according to your guest list or appetite.
Fresh Basil: Use fragrant fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled just won’t cut it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced if you can. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Capers: These little flavor bombs add brininess and depth—don’t skip them!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives richness and helps achieve that perfect sear.
Salt and Pepper: Essential staples for seasoning; adjust to taste as you go along.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together on the counter. It’s much easier than running around like a headless chicken during cooking!

Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides of each chicken breast. This simple step sets the foundation for flavor.

Sear the Chicken: In a hot skillet with olive oil, add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-6 minutes per side should do it. The smell will be heavenly!

Add Garlic and Lemon Juice: Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant before adding freshly squeezed lemon juice along with chicken broth. Let them mingle for about 3 minutes.

Stir in Capers and Basil: Add capers and chopped basil into the sauce; let everything simmer together until slightly thickened—around 2-3 minutes should suffice.

Plate It Up!: Serve your Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata with a drizzle of sauce over top. cheesy chicken burritos Garnish with extra basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy!

And there you have it! A delightful dish that brings together flavors that will make your mouth water while keeping things light-hearted in the kitchen. Enjoying this creation will have everyone asking for more!

You Must Know

This zesty lemon basil chicken piccata is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure
The bright flavors of lemon and the freshness of basil make every bite a celebration
Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then prepare the sauce while it simmers. This ensures layers of flavor and perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the basil for parsley or add capers for an extra punch. Customize it based on your pantry and taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh ingredients like lemon juice and basil for vibrant flavors that pop
Be sure to season your chicken well before cooking, enhancing its natural taste
Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer for deeper flavor development

Cooking this zesty dish always brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and compliments. Friends often ask for seconds, and who can blame them?

FAQ

What can I serve with zesty lemon basil chicken piccata?

For more inspiration, check out this no-bake lemon icebox pie recipe.

Pair this dish with pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. creamy pasta for dinner.

Can I use other herbs instead of basil?

Yes! Try parsley or dill for different flavor profiles that complement the dish beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and tenderness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card