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Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that has captured the hearts of many with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Traditionally made with sautéed chicken breasts, this dish is known for its tangy lemon sauce and briny capers. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and many variations have emerged, each adding unique twists to the original concept.

Lemony Crispy Chicken Piccata

A delicious and crispy chicken dish with a tangy lemon caper sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4.0 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2.0 large eggs
  • 2.0 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1.0 pieces lemon zest
  • 2.0 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1.0 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1.0 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth
  • 0.25 cup capers
  • 0.0 none Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.0 none Cooking spray or oil spray

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound them gently until they are about 0.5 inch thick for even cooking and a tender texture.
  • Set Up Breading Station: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat for all chicken breasts.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400 and preheat for about 5 minutes.
  • Air Fry the Chicken: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer inside the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd; you may need to do this in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with cooking spray to ensure they crisp up nicely. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  • Prepare the Piccata Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the chicken broth and capers. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can also add a little extra lemon juice if desired for additional zing.
  • Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, plate each piece and drizzle over the caper sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Enjoy: Serve your Lemony Crispy Chicken Piccata with a side of sautéed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal!

Notes

For extra crunch, prefer panko breadcrumbs.
Keyword chicken, lemon, piccata