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Creamy Parmesan Chicken

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With tender chicken breasts and a tangy lemon-butter sauce, this parmesan chicken is similar to chicken piccata but in a creamy parmesan sauce. If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, you’re about to become a master chef. This recipe gets done in 20 minutes.

A skillet with chicken cutlet in cream sauce.
Piccata with cream sauce.

Piccata means escalope of veal or chicken, which is dredged with flour and then simmered in a sauce made with butter, lemon, wine, and capers. Having traveled extensively, I’ve tasted many variations of this dish. Honestly, It’s hard to pick which is the best.

Today, I’m sharing my version of this classic Italian dish with you.


Why is this the best recipe?

  • First and foremost, the star of the show is, of course, the tender chicken breasts. Their juicy, succulent nature provides the perfect canvas for the tangy and vibrant lemon-butter sauce that accompanies them. The chicken is not only cooked to perfection but also seasoned with just the right amount of herbs and spices to enhance its natural flavor.
  • Speaking of the sauce, the combination of tanginess from fresh lemons and the richness of butter creates a symphony of flavors that is both tantalizing and refreshing. The lemon brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter, resulting in a perfectly balanced sauce that coats each piece of chicken with a burst of flavor.
  • Most of the ingredients used are simple pantry staples or easy to find.
A plate with chicken, pasta and cream sauce.
Piccata with cream sauce.

Ingredients and substitutes

  • Chicken – The chicken breast works perfectly for this recipe because we soak it in the white sauce, which helps keep it moist and juicy.
  • Parmesan – Adds a nice nutty flavor to the sauce.
  • Garlic – A little goes a long way. I have used small minced garlic, which is about a teaspoon. If you like garlic, use 1 tbsp of roasted garlic when possible.
  • Flour – Since we are using milk instead of cream, the flour helps thicken the sauce and prevents it from splitting.
  • Lemon juice – helps cut in the richness of the sauce. I have used very little, but you can certainly use more if you want to make lemon chicken piccata. If you find yourself without fresh lemons, fear not! You can easily substitute them with bottled lemon juice. While it may not bring the same level of freshness, it will still provide the necessary tanginess.
  • Butter – if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to butter, you can opt for olive oil or even coconut oil. These substitutes will bring their unique flavors to the dish while maintaining its overall deliciousness.
A collage of ingredients for chicken piccata.
Homemade Chicken in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Easy creamy parmesan chicken

  • Divide – Cut each chicken in half horizontally, so you make 2 pieces of each chicken breast (4 pieces).
  • Coat – Combine flour, parmesan, salt, and pepper on a plate. Coat the chicken pieces in the parmesan mixture. Set aside.
  • Sear – Use a cast-iron pan or heavy bottoms sauté pan. Add oil and butter. Cook the chicken pieces for 2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
Progress pictures how to make piccata.
Piccata with cream sauce.
  • Sauce – Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds in the same pan. Add the flour – sauté 30 seconds. Then, add the white wine or chicken broth – cook until thickened. Next, add the milk – cook for another minute. Then, add the lemon juice.
  • Chicken – Return the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle some parmesan and capers. Turn the chicken over to coat it in the sauce. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with more parmesan and parsley.
  • Serve over cooked pasta or mashed potatoes and a side of salad.
A skillet with chicken cutlet in cream sauce.
Piccata with cream sauce.

Tips for making the perfect parmesan chicken

  • Firstly, ensure you use thin chicken cutlets for this recipe. Thin cutlets not only cook faster but also absorb the flavors of the sauce more efficiently, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dish. If you can’t find thin cutlets at your local store, worry not! You can easily create them yourself by pounding boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap until they reach a uniform thickness of about ¼ inch.
  • Next, make sure you season your chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper before dredging them in flour. Seasoning at this stage adds a depth of flavor to the chicken, making each bite more satisfying. Additionally, when dredging the cutlets, press the flour firmly onto the surface to create a thin, even coating. This will help achieve a beautifully golden and crisp exterior when cooked.
  • When it comes to the sauce, remember that the key lies in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. As you combine the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers, taste the sauce and adjust the amounts to suit your preference. If you prefer a zesty, tangy flavor, feel free to add an extra squeeze of lemon juice. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice and add a touch more chicken broth.
  • Another tip for perfecting your chicken piccata is to ensure you properly deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken cutlets. This means adding the sauce to the same pan where you cooked the chicken, scraping the browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will infuse the sauce, creating a robust and rich taste experience. Don’t forget to remove the pan from the heat while deglazing to prevent the sauce from reducing too quickly.
A plate with chicken, pasta and cream sauce.
Piccata with cream sauce.

Creative ways to serve creamy parmesan chicken

  • One creative way to serve chicken piccata is to pair it with a refreshing citrus salad. The tanginess of the lemon in the piccata sauce perfectly complements the brightness of a citrus salad. Try tossing together segments of oranges, grapefruits, and blood oranges with some arugula, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette. The crisp salad and zesty chicken piccata will create a harmonious balance of flavors.
  • If you’re looking for a heartier option, consider serving chicken piccata with creamy mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes will help mellow out the tanginess of the lemon sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying combination. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mashed potatoes before serving. The combination of creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
  • For a lighter and more vibrant take on chicken piccata, try serving it over a bed of zucchini noodles. Spiralize some zucchini and lightly sauté it in olive oil until tender. Then, place the chicken piccata on top of the zucchini noodles, allowing the flavors to mingle. The result is a low-carb and gluten-free option that is both delicious and visually appealing.
  • Another creative way to serve chicken piccata is to turn it into a sandwich. Toast some crusty bread and spread a layer of herbed mayonnaise on one side. Place the chicken piccata on top and garnish with some fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onions. The combination of the tangy sauce, crispy chicken, and fresh vegetables will create a satisfying and flavorful sandwich.
A plate of chicken piccata and pasta.
Homemade Chicken in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Piccata

Frequently asked questions

How long will this chicken piccata keep?

This chicken piccata will keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Can I make this piccata ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can make it ahead of time. When you reheat it, add a little water to help the sauce loosen up again.

Can I omit the capers? What can I substitute for the capers?

Traditionally, chicken piccata is made with capers. But, I am not a fan of capers, so I do not add capers. You can use green olives instead of capers. Just a few chopped olives would work. Make sure to taste for seasoning before you add salt.

Can I make this a non-alcoholic chicken piccata?

Absolutely, you can use chicken stock instead of wine as I have done in the video.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice for piccata, you can experiment with other proteins such as veal, pork, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your meat is cooked to perfection.

Can I make chicken piccata in advance?

While freshly cooked chicken piccata is always a treat, you can certainly make it ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and prepare the sauce as instructed, but hold off on adding the lemon juice until you’re ready to serve. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet and then pour the sauce over it, adding the lemon juice as a final touch.

Can I freeze chicken piccata?

Absolutely! Chicken piccata freezes well, making it a convenient option for future meals. After cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce, let both cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers. You can store them together or separately, depending on your preference. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chicken piccata, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I adjust the level of tanginess in the sauce?

Absolutely! The level of tanginess in the sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tanginess, you can increase the lemon juice slightly. Remember, it’s all about finding the perfect balance of flavors that pleases your palate.

Can I make a larger batch of the sauce?

Certainly! If you’re serving a larger crowd or simply want to have extra sauce on hand, you can easily double or triple the sauce recipe. Just make sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and taste as you go to maintain the desired flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with chicken piccata?

Chicken piccata is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a simple green salad. The tangy and savory flavors of the piccata sauce complement these sides perfectly, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

What side dish works best with chicken piccata?

This is a very versatile dish and can pair with almost any veggies. Try sauteed green beans or asparagus, baked butternut squash, or carrots. You can even try a side of simple salad like celery, carrots, cabbage, etc.

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A plate of chicken piccata and pasta.
Homemade Chicken in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Piccata

A skillet with chicken cutlet in cream sauce.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Piccata

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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 338kcal
Adjust Servings Here: 4 servings

Description

This Italian classic, parmesan chicken piccata is chicken breast dredged in flour, then cooked in a parmesan-based white sauce. A very simple recipe that gets done in just 15 minutes. Today, I serve it over pappardelle pasta.

Video

Ingredients 

  • 2 Chicken breast ((split in two horizontally to make 4 pieces))

Parmesan mixture

  • ¼ cup All-purpose flour (or GF flour)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • ¼ tsp Kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp Parmesan cheese

Sauce

  • 1 tbsp Olive oil (EVO)
  • 1 tbsp Butter (unsalted )
  • 1 large Garlic clove (minced)
  • 1 tbsp All-purpose flour (or GF flour. )
  • ½ cup White wine (or stock)
  • ½ cup Whole milk
  • 1 – 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp Capers
  • ¼ tsp Kosher salt ((if needed) )
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper powder
  • ¼ cup Parsley (finely chopped)
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Instructions

  • Divide – Cut each chicken in half horizontally, so you make 2 pieces of each chicken breast (4 pieces).
    2 Chicken breast
  • Coat – Combine flour, parmesan, salt, and pepper on a plate. Coat the chicken pieces in the parmesan mixture. Set aside.
    ¼ cup All-purpose flour, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ tsp Kosher salt, ¼ tsp Parmesan cheese
  • Sear – Use a cast-iron pan or heavy bottoms sauté pan. Add oil and butter. Cook the chicken pieces for 2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
    1 tbsp Olive oil, 1 tbsp Butter, 1 large Garlic clove
  • Sauce – Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds in the same pan. Add the flour – sauté 30 seconds. Then, add the white wine or chicken broth – cook until thickened. Next, add the milk – cook for another minute. Then, add the lemon juice.
    1 tbsp All-purpose flour, ½ cup White wine, ½ cup Whole milk, 1 – 2 tbsp Lemon juice, ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • Chicken – Return the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle some parmesan and capers. Turn the chicken over to coat it in the sauce. Cook for 2 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with more parmesan and parsley.
    2 tbsp Capers, ¼ tsp Kosher salt, ¼ tsp Black pepper powder, ¼ cup Parsley
  • Serve over cooked pasta or mashed potatoes and a side of salad.

Recipe Notes & Tips

  • Firstly, ensure you use thin chicken cutlets for this recipe. Thin cutlets not only cook faster but also absorb the flavors of the sauce more efficiently, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dish. If you can’t find thin cutlets at your local store, worry not! You can easily create them yourself by pounding boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap until they reach a uniform thickness of about ¼ inch.
  • Next, make sure you season your chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper before dredging them in flour. Seasoning at this stage adds a depth of flavor to the chicken, making each bite more satisfying. Additionally, when dredging the cutlets, press the flour firmly onto the surface to create a thin, even coating. This will help achieve a beautifully golden and crisp exterior when cooked.
  • When it comes to the sauce, remember that the key lies in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. As you combine the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers, taste the sauce and adjust the amounts to suit your preference. If you prefer a zesty, tangy flavor, feel free to add an extra squeeze of lemon juice. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of lemon juice and add a touch more chicken broth.
  • Another tip for perfecting your chicken piccata is to ensure you properly deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken cutlets. This means adding the sauce to the same pan where you cooked the chicken, scraping the browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will infuse the sauce, creating a robust and rich taste experience. Don’t forget to remove the pan from the heat while deglazing to prevent the sauce from reducing too quickly.

Conversions Used

1 lb = 453 grams, 1 cup = 240 ml, 1 stick = 113g, 1 tbsp= 15 ml, 1 tsp= 5 ml,

Nutrition Information

Calories: 338kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 35gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 101mgSodium: 1003mgPotassium: 552mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 748IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 355mgIron: 1mg

The nutrition information and metric conversion are calculated automatically. I cannot guarantee its accuracy. If this data is important to you please verify with your trusted nutrition calculator. Thank you

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8 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    This is one my favorite comfort food, so of course I had to make it. It turned out super delicious. Thanks for sharing.

  2. Jessica Formicola says:

    5 stars
    Chicken piccata is my absolute favorite dinner! This recipe looks amazing and I can’t wait to try it for dinner this week!

  3. 5 stars
    OMGeee! What a terrific recipe! I am used to the traditional piccata, but this creamy version is dreamy! I’ll be making it again and again!

  4. stephanie says:

    5 stars
    This was such a fast and easy meal. My son loved it.

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