Classic Chicken Piccata is a beloved dish in many households, celebrated for its bright, zesty lemon-caper sauce and tender chicken. However, as the warmth of summer arrives and the allure of outdoor cooking beckons, keeping your kitchen cool becomes a priority. This is where Grilled Chicken Piccata truly shines as a spectacular and refreshing alternative, bringing all the vibrant flavors you adore with an irresistible smoky twist.
Transforming this Italian-American favorite for the grill is remarkably simple and yields incredibly satisfying results. The key lies in a flavorful marinade that not only infuses the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with tangy lemon, aromatic parsley, and briny capers, but also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and succulent. Grilling then adds a distinct char and delicious smoky undertones that elevate the dish to new heights, making it an ideal summer entrée. Say goodbye to heating up your kitchen and hello to a truly delicious, easy chicken piccata that’s perfect for warm weather dining.
Why Grilled Chicken Piccata is a Must-Try
If the mere thought of tender chicken bathed in a bright, savory sauce makes your mouth water, then this grilled chicken piccata is an absolute must for your summer cooking repertoire. It strikes the perfect balance between familiar comfort and exciting innovation, offering several compelling reasons to add it to your regular menu.
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: For anyone who adores lemon chicken, this grilled version takes those beloved flavors and infuses them with a wonderful smokiness. The marinade deeply penetrates the chicken, ensuring a burst of tangy, briny, and herbaceous notes in every bite. The char from the grill adds an extra layer of complexity that pan-fried versions simply can’t replicate.
- Effortless Preparation for Any Occasion: Despite its sophisticated taste, this recipe is incredibly straightforward. Marinating for just 30 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours is all it takes to impart delicious flavor and tenderize your chicken breasts. This makes it easy enough for a busy weeknight dinner, yet exceptionally delicious and elegant enough to serve with confidence to company at your next backyard gathering.
- A Cooler Kitchen Experience: In the sweltering heat of summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on your stovetop or oven. Grilling keeps the heat outside, allowing you to prepare a fantastic meal without warming up your home. It’s the ultimate solution for enjoying a gourmet-quality meal even on the hottest days.
- Healthy and Lean: Chicken piccata, especially when grilled, is a relatively lean protein option. By using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and a vibrant lemon-based sauce, you get a meal that is satisfying, flavorful, and aligns well with a health-conscious diet. It’s high in protein and can be easily adapted to manage fat and sodium content.
- Versatile Pairing Options: This dish is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide array of summer side dishes, from fresh salads to grilled vegetables and light starches. Its adaptability makes meal planning a breeze, allowing you to create a complete and cohesive menu.
Mastering the Art of Grilled Chicken Piccata
Creating this spectacular grilled chicken piccata is a straightforward process, relying on a simple yet effective marinade and the magic of the grill. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease, ensuring a delightful meal with minimal fuss. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved, followed by a visual guide to walk you through the process:
The journey begins with seasoning your chicken and whisking together the vibrant marinade ingredients: fresh lemon juice, quality olive oil, briny capers, and fragrant parsley. The chicken then luxuriates in this flavorful bath, absorbing all the wonderful aromas and tenderizing agents. Once perfectly marinated, the chicken hits the hot grill, developing those irresistible char marks and smoky flavor. Meanwhile, the reserved marinade transforms into a luscious, warm sauce with the addition of chicken broth and a touch of butter, ready to be drizzled over the perfectly cooked chicken. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, all achieved with simple steps.
Key Ingredients for a Perfect Grilled Piccata
The success of any great recipe often comes down to the quality and understanding of its ingredients. For this Grilled Chicken Piccata, a few simple components come together to create a harmonious and unforgettable flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each plays a crucial role:
- Chicken Breasts: While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience and quicker cooking, don’t hesitate to experiment. Bone-in chicken breasts offer more inherent flavor due to the marrow and fat, which liquefy during cooking. If you prefer, chicken thighs are also an excellent option, providing even more moisture and rich flavor, and are often more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½-inch) for uniform cooking on the grill.
- Kitchen Staples:
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These are the foundational seasonings. Kosher salt provides a clean, briny flavor and coarse texture that adheres well to the chicken. Freshly ground black pepper offers a more pungent aroma and sharper taste than pre-ground. Season generously but be mindful of the capers and broth adding additional sodium.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil not only for its flavor but also for its role in the marinade, helping to carry flavors and keep the chicken moist.
- Capers: These small, pickled flower buds are indispensable for piccata. They contribute a unique briny, tangy, and slightly floral piquancy that defines the dish. While commonly found in small jars, you can find different sizes, sometimes referred to as caper berries. Ensure you drain off their liquid before adding them to the marinade.
- Fresh Parsley: The bright, herbaceous notes of fresh parsley are vital. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is generally preferred for its more robust flavor and less bitter profile compared to curly parsley. Chop it finely to distribute its fresh taste throughout the marinade and as a garnish.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount for the vibrant, zesty core of piccata. The brightness of fresh lemon cannot be replicated by bottled juice. Consider using organic lemons, as you might also want to grate some zest into the marinade for an extra burst of citrus aroma.
- Chicken Broth: This forms the base of your luscious piccata sauce. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth to better control the overall saltiness of your dish, especially since capers are quite salty.
- Butter: A few tablespoons of butter are whisked into the finished sauce to add richness, body, and a silky smooth texture. Whether salted or unsalted, adjust other seasonings accordingly. I used salted butter for added depth.
Expert Tips for Grilling Piccata Like a Pro
Achieving perfectly grilled chicken piccata involves a few key techniques and considerations. Follow these expert tips to ensure tender, flavorful chicken and a truly sensational meal every time:
- Chicken Choice and Preparation:
- PRO-Tip on Chicken Cuts: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient, bone-in chicken breasts often boast more flavor. The marrow and fat within and around the bones melt and infuse flavor into the meat as it cooks. If using bone-in, adjust grilling time accordingly. Chicken thighs are another excellent, flavorful, and moist alternative.
- Even Thickness is Key: For uniform cooking, especially with chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even ½-inch thickness. This prevents thinner parts from drying out while thicker parts cook, ensuring every piece finishes at the same time and is perfectly tender.
- Mastering the Marinade:
- PRO-Tip on Marinating Duration: Do not marinate chicken longer than 2 hours. The acidity in the lemon juice, while excellent for flavor and tenderization, can begin to break down the meat excessively if left too long. This can result in a mushy texture, or paradoxically, make the chicken tough and even impart an unpleasant tart flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice Reigns Supreme: Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice. The vibrant, complex flavor of fresh lemon is far superior to bottled juice, which can taste dull or artificial.
- Ensure Even Flavor: Flip the chicken once during the marinating time. This simple step ensures that all sides of the chicken absorb the delicious flavors of the marinade evenly.
- Grilling for Perfection and Safety:
- PRO-Tip for Food Safety and Juiciness: Grill chicken until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure any potential bacteria like salmonella are thoroughly eliminated. For maximum juiciness, if you have time to let the chicken rest before serving, you can pull it off the grill at 150°F (66°C). Immediately cover your chicken loosely with foil for 10 minutes; the internal temperature should rise by an additional 5-10°F (3-6°C) as it rests (this is called carry-over cooking), bringing it to a safe 155-160°F (68-71°C). Resting also allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and moist chicken.
- Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This ensures beautiful sear marks and prevents sticking. Clean grates are also crucial.
- Crafting the Exquisite Sauce:
- PRO-Tip for Sauce Safety: If you plan to drizzle the leftover marinade over the cooked chicken before serving, it is absolutely crucial to reheat it first. Bring the reserved marinade to a full simmer in a saucepan and let it gently boil for at least 5 minutes. This process will kill any possible bacteria contamination from contact with raw chicken, making it safe to consume.
- Emulsify the Butter: When adding butter to the simmering sauce, whisk vigorously to fully incorporate it. This emulsifies the sauce, giving it a smooth, glossy, and rich finish.
- Enhancing Presentation and Flavor:
- Grilled Lemon Halves: Consider grilling the leftover lemon halves alongside the chicken. The heat caramelizes the lemon, making it sweeter and easier to squeeze. Offering a couple of grilled lemon halves as a garnish can add both visual appeal and an extra burst of fresh, warm citrus juice if serving to dinner guests.
- Fresh Garnish: A final sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley before serving adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.
What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Piccata
Given that this chicken is grilled, it naturally pairs wonderfully with a variety of summer side dishes. However, the bright, savory, and slightly tangy profile of piccata makes it incredibly versatile, meaning almost everything goes well with this tasty Italian-inspired entrée. Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Brown Butter: The earthy notes of roasted asparagus, enhanced by the nutty browned butter and tangy balsamic, complement the lemon chicken beautifully.
- Glazed Carrots: A touch of sweetness from glazed carrots provides a lovely contrast to the piccata’s tanginess, adding color and a soft texture.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad with Blue Cheese: A light, fruity, and slightly peppery salad with the sharp creaminess of blue cheese offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich chicken.
- Caprese Salad with Blueberries: The classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a surprising burst of blueberries provides a sweet, savory, and herbaceous side that feels perfectly summery.
- Mexican Corn Salad: A vibrant, spicy, and creamy corn salad introduces a different flavor profile that still harmonizes with the grilled chicken, especially with its grilled components.
- Rice Pilaf: A simple, fluffy rice pilaf, perhaps with toasted almonds for texture, is an excellent choice for soaking up the delicious piccata sauce.
- Homemade Garlic Bread: Always a crowd-pleaser, warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
- Yeast Roll Knots: Soft, buttery yeast rolls offer a comforting touch and are another fantastic vehicle for enjoying the piccata sauce.
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The delightful texture of crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside smashed potatoes provides a satisfying starchy accompaniment.
- Also, explore all my Best Side Dish Recipes for even more inspiration to complete your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Piccata
Delve deeper into the world of piccata with answers to some commonly asked questions, providing more insight into this delicious dish.
Piccata is indeed a dish with Italian roots, though its exact origins can be debated, and it’s particularly popular in Italian-American cuisine. The term “piccata” itself is the Italian word for veal escalope, a thin, flattened slice of meat. Traditionally, the classic entree features veal that is seasoned, lightly floured, sautéed, and then served with a bright sauce typically made from the pan drippings, lemon juice, and parsley. Chicken piccata is a very popular alternate version, substituting thin chicken cutlets (usually chicken breasts pounded thin) for the veal, adapting the same beloved preparation method and flavor profile.
The quintessential piccata sauce is renowned for its vibrant, tangy, and savory character. At its core, the classic sauce is made from the pan drippings (or, in the case of our grilled version, a reserved marinade base), fresh lemon juice for its signature brightness, and fresh parsley for herbaceous notes. However, there are numerous delightful variations that often include additional ingredients to enhance depth and richness. Many recipes, including this one, incorporate capers for their distinct briny piquancy. Other common additions might include white wine, chicken broth for body, and a swirl of butter at the end to create a silky, emulsified finish.
Chicken piccata, whether grilled or pan-fried, is incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. Its bright, zesty sauce pairs beautifully with a range of accompaniments. Classic choices include a vibrant green vegetable like steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli. Starches such as fluffy rice pilaf, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a light pasta (like angel hair or linguine tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan) are excellent for soaking up the delicious sauce. A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast. For more specific ideas, refer to the “What to Serve With Chicken Piccata” section above, which offers a detailed list of complementary dishes.
Chicken piccata, especially when prepared thoughtfully, can be a relatively healthy meal. It is naturally high in lean protein (from the chicken) and generally low in fat and sugar, particularly when using boneless, skinless breasts and a moderate amount of olive oil. The vibrant lemon and caper sauce is typically light. Sodium content can easily be managed by choosing low-sodium chicken broth and controlling the amount of added salt. If capers are very salty, a quick rinse can also help. This dish is rich in flavor without being heavy, making it a great option for those seeking a balanced and nutritious meal.
Yes, you can certainly do some prep work in advance to make mealtime even easier. The chicken can be seasoned and marinated for up to 2 hours before grilling. You can also whisk together the sauce ingredients (lemon juice, olive oil, capers, parsley) and have them ready, storing the chicken separately from the marinade if prepping more than 2 hours ahead. The sauce can be made just before serving to ensure it’s warm and fresh to drizzle over the hot chicken. Grilling the chicken and making the sauce immediately before serving yields the best results for texture and flavor.
Capers are quite distinctive and truly define the “piccata” flavor, so for the most authentic taste, it’s highly recommended to use them. However, if you absolutely don’t have them, you might try a very small amount of finely minced green olives for a briny, salty punch, though the flavor will be different. Some people use finely diced cornichons (small pickled gherkins) for a similar tangy, briny note. Keep in mind that these are approximations, and the unique floral tang of capers is hard to replicate precisely.
You May Also Like These Delicious Recipes
If you enjoyed the flavors and simplicity of this Grilled Chicken Piccata, you might also love exploring these other fantastic chicken and entrée recipes. Expand your culinary horizons and discover new favorites for your kitchen, whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors:
- Easy Chicken Pad Thai from Simply Scratch: A vibrant, flavorful, and quick stir-fry for an international twist.
- When your grill is covered with snow or you simply prefer indoor cooking, try this classic Skillet Chicken Piccata Recipe. It brings all the same beloved flavors to your stovetop.
- Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu: A sophisticated dish featuring chicken stuffed with ham and cheese, baked until golden and crispy.
- Shredded Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A light, fresh, and flavorful option perfect for a healthy lunch or appetizer.
- Honey Glazed Chicken Kabobs: Another excellent grilling recipe, featuring sweet and savory chicken skewers with vegetables.
- Plus, don’t forget to check out all of my Best Chicken Recipes for a wide range of ideas suitable for any occasion or craving.
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Grilled Chicken Piccata
15 minutes
10 minutes
2 hours
2 hours 25 minutes
6
A twist on the classic Chicken Piccata made on the grill. Recipe adapted from Michael Symon via Food Network.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of one lemon
- ¼ cup capers, liquid drained off
- ¼ cup minced flat leaf parsley
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 4 tablespoons of butter
Instructions
- Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, capers, and parsley.
- Add to a Ziploc bag with the chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, but reserve the marinade for the sauce.
- Grill over medium-high heat flipping once about 5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
- Remove the chicken to a serving dish and cover while you prepare the sauce.
- In a saucepan, bring the marinade to a simmer. Add the butter and whisk until combined. Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve.
Notes
You may also use chicken thighs or bone-in chicken instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
This can also be made with pork.
Recipe adapted from Michael Symon via the Food Network.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 359Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 123mgSodium: 368mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 38g
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