Introduction
Welcome to a warm and comforting dish that will make your kitchen smell divine! This cozy crockpot chicken piccata is not only easy to prepare but also brims with vibrant flavors that will have your family gathering around the table. Imagine tender chicken breasts simmered to perfection in a luscious lemony broth, punctuated by briny capers. Serve it over pasta or rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Then, lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off any excess for a nice, even layer.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts and sear them until they are a beautiful golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once browned, transfer the chicken to the crockpot.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, capers, oregano, and if you like a hint of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Pour this vibrant sauce over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Once ready, serve the delectable chicken over fluffy cooked pasta or rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for that pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
- If you’re a fan of lemon, feel free to add more lemon juice to brighten the dish even further.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the art of searing to enhance the flavors of the chicken. Searing helps to lock in juices and develop a rich color that adds depth to the dish. Additionally, using a crockpot allows the chicken to slow cook gently, making it ultra-tender and infused with the delicious lemony sauce.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can, but be sure to extend the cooking time to ensure they cook through completely.
- What can I serve with chicken piccata? This dish is fantastic over pasta or rice, but also pairs well with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Can I substitute the capers? If you’re not a fan of capers, you can skip them or substitute with green olives for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This cozy crockpot chicken piccata is a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavors that make every bite a delight. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers both ease and deliciousness. Grab your crockpot and get ready for a dish you’ll want to savor again and again!