Unlock The Secrets To Cooking The Perfect Frozen Chicken Piccata: A Step-by-step Guide!
What To Know
- Remove the frozen chicken piccata from the package and place it in a colander.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a boil.
- The lemon juice in the sauce adds a boost of vitamin C, while the capers are a good source of antioxidants.
Frozen chicken piccata offers a convenient solution for weeknight dinners or quick and easy lunches. By following a few simple steps, you can transform this frozen delicacy into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (1 pound) frozen chicken piccata
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Remove the frozen chicken piccata from the package and place it in a colander. Run cold water over the chicken until it is completely thawed. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Place the chicken in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan (Optional)
If desired, pour the white wine into the skillet and let it simmer for 1 minute, stirring to deglaze the pan.
Step 6: Add the Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Add the Lemon Juice, Capers, and Parsley
Stir in the lemon juice, capers, and parsley. Cook for an additional 1 minute, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the chicken piccata immediately over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use a large skillet to prevent the chicken from overcrowding.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
- If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Culinary Variations:
- Creamy Chicken Piccata: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce after adding the chicken broth.
- Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Piccata: Stir in 1 cup of cooked spinach and 1/2 cup of canned artichoke hearts to the sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Piccata: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
The Health Benefits of Chicken Piccata
Chicken piccata is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken is a lean protein source that provides amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The lemon juice in the sauce adds a boost of vitamin C, while the capers are a good source of antioxidants.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts instead of chicken piccata?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts are thicker than chicken piccata.
Q: What can I serve with chicken piccata?
A: Chicken piccata can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Q: Can I make chicken piccata ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make chicken piccata ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken piccata over medium heat before serving.