Go Back
Adam

The Ultimate Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce – Bright, Creamy, and Restaurant-Quality

Few dishes can match the elegance and bold flavor of chicken piccata with lemon sauce. It’s a classic that feels both light and indulgent, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. With tender chicken breasts, a silky lemon-forward sauce, and a balance of savory and tangy notes, this recipe delivers timeless comfort with a refined touch. What truly sets this chicken piccata apart is its vibrant lemon sauce. The citrus cuts through the richness of butter and cheese, creating a dish that feels fresh, satisfying, and never heavy. Each bite combines juicy chicken with a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the palate beautifully. This version is designed for home cooks who want restaurant-style results without complicated steps. It uses simple pantry ingredients, avoids alcohol by relying on chicken broth, and comes together quickly in one pan. If you enjoy lemon chicken recipes, easy skillet dinners, and Italian-inspired comfort food, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • All ingredients should be prepared and measured before cooking.
Protein
  • 8 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Coating
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
Liquids & Sauce Base
  • 6 tablespoons chicken broth
  • 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ⅛ teaspoon hot pepper sauce
Fresh Ingredients
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
Egg Mixture
  • ½ cup egg substitute
Dairy
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fats
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil
Ingredient Notes:
  • Fresh lemon juice is essential for authentic chicken piccata flavor.
  • Parmesan adds subtle richness without overpowering the sauce.

Equipment

  • To prepare this chicken piccata with lemon sauce, you’ll need:
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Shallow bowls (for dredging)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Plate for resting chicken
  • Tip: A wide skillet allows the chicken to cook evenly without overcrowding.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps carefully for perfectly cooked chicken piccata with lemon sauce.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. If chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
  2. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station
  1. In one shallow bowl, add flour and salt.
  2. In another bowl, add the egg substitute.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
  1. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture.
  2. Lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken in batches.
  3. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  4. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and cover lightly.
Step 5: Build the Lemon Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
  2. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice.
  5. Add hot pepper sauce.
  6. Stir well, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
  1. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, until slightly reduced and glossy.
Step 7: Return Chicken to Pan
  1. Place chicken back into the skillet.
  2. Spoon sauce over each piece.
  3. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to absorb flavor.
Step 8: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
  1. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
  3. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
Add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce
Tip: Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.
🥄 Variations
Customize your chicken piccata with lemon sauce with these ideas:
Extra Lemon Flavor
Add lemon zest to the sauce
Creamy Piccata
Add ¼ cup whole milk for a richer sauce
Spicy Kick
Increase hot pepper sauce slightly
Herb-Forward
Add fresh thyme or basil
Low-Carb Version
Skip flour and lightly pan-sear the chicken
❓ 10 FAQs
Is chicken piccata traditionally lemony?
Yes, lemon is the defining flavor of piccata.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well.
Why dredge in flour?
It helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but reheats well.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the heat is very mild.
What can I serve with chicken piccata?
Rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables pair well.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Freezing is not recommended due to the sauce texture.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Can I reduce the lemon?
Yes, adjust to taste.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it’s flavorful but mild.
🏁 Conclusion
This ultimate chicken piccata with lemon sauce brings classic flavors to your table in a simple, reliable way. With tender chicken, a bright citrus sauce, and a touch of richness from butter and Parmesan, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a quick family dinner, this dish delivers elegance without effort. Once you try it, you’ll understand why chicken piccata remains a timeless favorite in kitchens around the world.