Chicken Piccata with Rosemary Infused Garlic Butter
Generated with the assistance of Pantry Bliss AI
Last updated on
4
25 minutes
Prep time
10 minutes
Marinade/Proof time
5 minutes
Cook time
10 minutes
The inspiration for this Chicken Piccata with Rosemary Infused Garlic Butter stems from a delightful culinary experience in the heart of Italy, where classic techniques meet seasonal ingredients. While exploring a quaint restaurant in Tuscany, I savored a traditional chicken piccata that was stunningly aromatic and rich with flavors. The delicate balance of lemon zest and capers captivated my palate, serving as the initial spark for this dish. However, I couldn’t shake the thought of enhancing its robust flavor profile with a more complex component. That’s where the idea for rosemary-infused garlic butter emerged, influenced by my admiration for chefs like Lidia Bastianich, who often emphasize using fresh herbs to amplify the essence of a dish.
The flavor profile of this dish plays a harmonious dance between the bright, tart lemon juice and the earthy, aromatic rosemary. The chicken breast fillets, pounded to a uniform thickness, create an even cooking surface that absorbs the flavors beautifully while remaining moist and tender. The refreshing acidity from the freshly squeezed lemon juice complements the briny capers, bringing a lively zing that uplifts each bite. The rosemary-infused garlic butter introduces a new dimension altogether, enveloping the chicken in a silky, fragrant sauce that ties the elements of the dish together. The garlic lends depth while the rosemary infuses it with a woodsy essence, creating a symphony of tastes that feels both familiar and exciting.
In crafting this recipe, I employed classic French sautéing techniques, channeling that golden-brown perfection characteristic of well-cooked chicken. The dredging process in all-purpose flour not only provides a beautiful crust but also facilitates that essential Maillard reaction—the key to developing rich, savory flavors. When the chicken is sautéed in olive oil until golden brown, a crispy texture is achieved, setting a stellar foundation for the dish. The subsequent preparation of the garlic-infused butter is a simple yet effective method, allowing the flavors to meld together, ensuring that each component bursts with character.
Presentation plays a vital role in conveying the dish’s elegance. To plate, I suggest spooning a generous amount of creamy polenta onto the dish—its smooth texture creates a beautiful canvas for the vibrant chicken. The chicken piccata, drizzled with the luscious garlic butter sauce, is placed prominently atop, allowing the eye to feast before the taste buds join in. To elevate the visual appeal, a scattering of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color, while a lemon wedge can be included for an extra zesty garnish, inviting diners to customize their flavor experience with each squeeze.
For serving suggestions, pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the citrus notes and balances the richness of the garlic butter. A side of lightly sautéed green beans or a fresh arugula salad can provide a refreshing crunch, complementing the overall experience. For an exquisite final touch, consider offering a dusting of extra parmesan cheese over the polenta, marrying the flavors in delightful harmony. Embark on this culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of Italian cooking with a twist—you won’t just feed your hunger; you'll create a memorable dining experience steeped in love, care, and a passion for flavors.
This recipe and its accompanying image were generated by Pantry Bliss AI. Please use your discretion, verify ingredients for allergies and safe consumption, and follow safe cooking practices.
Ingredients
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4 large chicken breast fillets (pounded to uniform thickness)
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100 grams all-purpose flour (for dredging)
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10 grams salt (to taste)
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5 grams black pepper (to taste)
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30 milliliters olive oil
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150 milliliters white wine
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50 milliliters lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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30 grams capers (drained)
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10 grams fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
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100 grams unsalted butter (at room temperature)
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5 grams fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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200 grams polenta
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800 milliliters water
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50 grams parmesan cheese (finely grated)
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30 grams butter (optional, for creaminess)
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5 grams salt (to taste)
Instructions
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1.
Prepare the Polenta:
In a large pot, bring 800 ml of water to a rolling boil. Slowly whisk in the 200 g of polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Ensure water is boiling before adding polenta to prevent lumps.
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2.
Cook the Polenta:
Reduce the heat to low and let the polenta simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Add 5 g of salt to taste. If using, stir in 30 g of butter and 50 g of parmesan cheese for richness.
Stir frequently to avoid sticking; adjust the heat if polenta begins to clump.
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3.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine 100 g of softened butter, 5 g of chopped fresh rosemary, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Mix until well blended and set aside to infuse.
Ensure butter is at room temperature to mix easily; do not melt the butter.
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4.
Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Dredge each fillet in 100 g of flour to coat lightly. Heat 30 ml of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding chicken to achieve a good sear; do not overcrowd the pan.
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5.
Create the Sauce in the Skillet:
In the same skillet, add 150 ml of white wine and 50 ml of lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Allow the mixture to reduce for 2-3 minutes before adding the chicken back to the skillet. Sprinkle with 30 g of capers and let simmer for another 2 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce.
The mixture should reduce to about half; avoid burning by adjusting the heat as necessary.
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6.
Finish with Garlic Butter:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the rosemary garlic butter until melted and combined. Coat the chicken well in the sauce.
Remove from heat to prevent butter from separating; stir gently to incorporate.
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7.
Plate and Serve:
Spoon creamy polenta onto each plate, top with chicken Piccata, and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Ensure the polenta is creamy and not too thick; garnish generously with parsley for freshness.
Tips and Variations
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken fillets.
- You can substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth to make it non-alcoholic, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- For a lighter version of polenta, consider using cauliflower rice as a base instead; just sauté it in a pan with some olive oil until tender.
- Add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the polenta for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If fresh rosemary isn't available, dried rosemary can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon as it is more potent.
- For added flavor complexity, consider splashing in a tablespoon of caper brine along with the capers in the sauce.
- Infuse the garlic butter with lemon zest to echo the brightness of the lemon juice in the Piccata.
- You can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge; just let it soften before using it in the sauce.
- To save time, you could prepare the polenta in advance and reheat it just before serving, adding a splash of water or stock to keep it creamy.
- Garnish with lemon wedges for an additional touch of acidity when serving.
Equipment Required
Suggested Pairings
Sides
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The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the robustness of the rosemary-infused garlic butter and provides a bright contrast to the rich chicken piccata.
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Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the chicken piccata, adding a crunchy texture to the meal.
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The peppery notes of arugula and the tangy lemon vinaigrette balance the richness of the dish and refresh the palate.
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Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green to the plate and its mild flavor complements the citrus notes of the piccata.
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The lightness of herbed rice pilaf serves as a great base for the chicken piccata, enhancing the dish without overpowering it.
Drinks
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A refreshing lemonade complements the citrus flavors of the chicken piccata and balances the richness of the butter sauce.
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A glass of Pinot Grigio, with its bright and crisp acidity, pairs beautifully with chicken piccata, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Other Food Dishes
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A classic Italian dessert like tiramisu provides a sweet balance after the savory chicken piccata, with its coffee flavors enhancing the meal.
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Light and creamy, panna cotta adds a delicate end to the meal, its subtle sweetness contrasting nicely with the savory elements.