Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata Recipe

If you have been longing for a bright, flavorful, and irresistibly tender chicken dish, the Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata is exactly what your kitchen needs right now. This classic recipe brings together the zing of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the rich silkiness of butter, and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly breaded chicken breast. The Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata is not only a feast for your taste buds but also surprisingly simple to make, making it a beloved go-to dinner for both weeknights and special occasions alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata, the ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in creating balanced, delicious layers of flavor and texture. From the zestiness of lemon to the crispiness of the breaded coating, every component adds something special.

• 2 split boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are pounded thin to ensure quick, even cooking and tender bites.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base for a light dredge that helps the bread crumbs stick.
• 1 extra-large egg: Acts as a glue for the breading, contributing to the beautiful golden crust.
• 1/2 tablespoon water: Helps mellow out the egg mixture for smooth coating.
• 3/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs: Adds crunch and depth, elevating the texture of the chicken.
• Olive oil: For a light sauté that keeps the chicken moist and the coating crisp.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Provides richness and silkiness in the sauce and finishing touches.
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: The unmistakable star ingredient that gives the piccata its signature tang.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: Adds complexity and bright acidity to the sauce, balancing the richness perfectly.
• Lemon slices: For serving and an extra pop of citrus aroma.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh herbal note to finish the plate.

How to Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata

Step 1: Flatten and Season the Chicken

The first move is to gently pound the chicken breasts until they are about a quarter inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender without drying out. Season the flattened pieces generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to build a flavor foundation that will shine through once cooked.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Stations

Creating a smooth, crispy crust is all about the dredging technique. On one plate, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. On another, whisk together the extra-large egg with water to thin it out just right. On the third, pour the seasoned dry bread crumbs. This classic three-step setup preps you for the perfect breaded coating every time.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly

Dip each chicken piece first into the flour mix, shaking off any extra, then into the egg wash, and finally into the bread crumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. This triple coating seals in moisture and creates that coveted golden, crunchy exterior that makes Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata so delightful.

Step 4: Sauté Until Golden Brown

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 2 minutes per side until each piece turns a gorgeous golden color. This quick sauté locks in juices and gives the chicken a crisp crust without burning the delicate breading.

Step 5: Finish Cooking in the Oven

Transfer the sautéed chicken to a parchment-lined sheet pan and bake at 400°F for 5 to 10 minutes, just long enough to cook through without drying out. This step ensures tenderness while maintaining the integrity of the crunchy coating.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon-Wine Butter Sauce

Wipe out your sauté pan and melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, dry white wine, the reserved lemon halves, and season with salt and pepper. Boil this mixture for 2 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Remove from heat and swirl in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for a luxuriously silky finish.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Discard the cooked lemon halves and spoon the vibrant lemon-butter sauce generously over the baked chicken. Top it with bright lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add charm and a burst of fresh color that invites you to dig in.

How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata

Garnishes

Simple yet impactful garnishes elevate the Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata. Fresh lemon slices bring zesty brightness right to the plate, while chopped parsley adds a herbaceous, vibrant touch. Both not only enhance flavor but also make the dish visually inviting, perfect for a dinner to impress or a cozy family meal.

Side Dishes

This chicken piccata pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think light and fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the lemony sauce, or a bed of tender angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans add a welcome crisp contrast and color, rounding out a well-balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you really want to get fancy with Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata, consider plating the chicken atop a swirl of creamy polenta or alongside a vibrant salad with fennel and radishes for crunch. Serving it family-style in a large serving dish encourages everyone to dive in, sharing not just food but an experience filled with warmth and great flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container, making sure to include the sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful for the next meal.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze cooked chicken piccata for up to one month. Keep the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container or individually wrapped pieces. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, spooning the lemon-butter sauce on top to keep it moist. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the breading soggy. Alternatively, a quick reheat in a 350°F oven wrapped loosely in foil works beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Chicken thighs can be used, but the texture and cooking time will differ. Thighs are more forgiving and juicier but may need a longer bake time. Flatten and follow the same dredging and sauté steps for lovely results.

What type of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a dry Chardonnay works best. Avoid anything too sweet as it can overpower the tangy lemon sauce that defines Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata.

Is it okay to skip baking and just cook on the stove?

While you can cook the chicken completely on the stove, baking ensures the chicken finishes cooking evenly without burning the crust. The oven step helps keep the coating crisp while sealing in moisture.

Can I make the sauce without wine?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth and add a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for acidity. The tang and brightness are key to that signature piccata flavor.

How do I get the breading extra crispy?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dredging and shake off excess flour before dipping into the egg. Use seasoned dry bread crumbs and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even browning. A mix of olive oil and butter when cooking can also boost crispiness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Getting cozy with the Barefoot Contessa Chicken Piccata means treating yourself and your loved ones to a dish that beautifully balances tangy, buttery, and savory notes alongside a delightfully crisp crust. It’s a recipe that feels elegant yet effortless, perfect for creating memorable meals and making dinner something extra special. Give it a try—you’ll soon discover why this dish is a cherished classic that everyone loves coming back to.

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