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Instructions for Making Mediterranean Chicken Piccata:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess flour.
2. Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep warm.
3. Make the Mediterranean Piccata Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt and foam slightly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by about half, which will take around 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Lemon, Olives, and Capers
Once the wine has reduced, add the lemon juice, capers, and sliced olives (both Kalamata and green olives). Stir well and let the sauce simmer for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Return Chicken to the Pan
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and heat through.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is heated through and coated with the Mediterranean sauce, remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Optionally, garnish with lemon slices for an extra citrus touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Piccata with your choice of sides such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The delicious lemony sauce is perfect for drizzling over the chicken and accompanying sides.
Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Piccata:
- Wine Substitution: If you don’t want to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. While wine adds depth and acidity, broth will still create a flavorful sauce.
- Chicken Tenderness: To ensure tender chicken, you can gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, you can add cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or spinach to the sauce while it’s simmering. These Mediterranean veggies pair wonderfully with the olive and lemon flavors.
- Serve with Bread: For the ultimate meal, serve this chicken piccata with a side of crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy every last bit of that Mediterranean goodness.
Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Chicken Piccata:
This Mediterranean Chicken Piccata is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh. The richness of the olives and capers combined with the bright lemon sauce makes for a dish that’s full of flavor yet light enough to feel refreshing. Whether you’re craving something new for your weeknight dinners or hosting a special dinner for guests, this dish is sure to impress with its bold Mediterranean flair.
Not only does it taste amazing, but it also requires minimal time and effort to prepare. It’s an easy way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home. The addition of olives, capers, and fresh lemon creates a flavorful sauce that beautifully complements the juicy chicken, making each bite a delight.
For a meal that’s healthy, delicious, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser, Mediterranean Chicken Piccata is your new go-to recipe. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!
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