Description
This easy piccata sauce recipe with bright lemon-caper gloss is perfect for busy weeknights, transforming simple chicken or fish into a zesty, savory, and special meal. This classic sauce is approachable and foolproof, making it ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (8g)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (240ml)
- 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice (60ml)
- 2 tablespoons capers (30g), drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (8g), chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- A dash white wine (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter & Oil: In a medium 10-inch skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil for about 2 minutes, until butter is liquid and starting to foam.
- Make a Light Roux: Whisk in 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour until smooth and lightly golden, cooking for about 1 minute, forming a paste-like consistency.
- Add Broth & Simmer: Gradually whisk in 1 cup chicken broth, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Introduce Lemon & Capers: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons drained capers for about 1 minute.
- Finish & Season: Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors for about 1 minute. For a thinner sauce, add a splash more broth.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Vegetable broth can substitute chicken broth. Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for optimal flavor. Adjust sauce thickness by simmering longer or adding more broth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (120 ml)
- Calories: 100 calories
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg