Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 32 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Crockpot Chicken Piccata
Crockpot Chicken Piccata is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. This Italian-inspired dish showcases tender chicken in a delightful lemony sauce, enriched with capers for that unique tang. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and juicy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or dinner parties, making it both accessible and impressive. Plus, the fragrance that fills your kitchen as it cooks will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Piccata
Making Crockpot Chicken Piccata is straightforward and hassle-free. Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup capers
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Next, coat each piece with flour, ensuring they are well-dusted. The flour not only adds flavor but also helps create a nice crust when browned.
Step 2: Searing
In a skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the floured chicken breasts to the skillet and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step locks in moisture and adds a nice golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Transferring to Crockpot
Once browned, transfer the chicken breasts to the crockpot. They will continue to cook slowly and absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce you’re about to create.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 cup of capers, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir the mixture to combine and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help lift any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Combining
Pour the simmering sauce over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure each piece is well coated. This will infuse the chicken with that bright, zesty flavor we know and love about piccata.
Step 6: Slow Cooking
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fork-tender and you can easily shred it. The longer it cooks, the more flavors meld together, so feel free to let it sit longer if you have the time.
Step 7: Garnishing
Once cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a nice herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Piccata
Serve your Crockpot Chicken Piccata over a bed of pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The lemony sauce is perfect for drizzling over your sides for added flavor. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce—it’s too good to waste!
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Piccata
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers and keep them frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Piccata
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before cooking.
- Feel free to substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice if fresh isn’t available, but fresh tends to offer better flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
- If you don’t have capers, chopped green olives can work as a tasty substitute.
- Be cautious with the sodium content; you can use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium levels.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Chicken Piccata: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist on the classic flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
- Creamy Piccata: Stir in a splash of cream or create a roux to thicken the sauce for a creamier version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot, but be sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they cook through.
What can I serve with Chicken Piccata?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. Greens like asparagus or a simple side salad also complement it beautifully.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Pork or veal can also be used for a different take on the piccata flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Cook a batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Piccata is not only easy to prepare, but it also delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. With its delightful mix of tangy lemon and briny capers, this dish is a heartwarming addition to any dinner table. Whether you’re busy working or just want a stress-free meal, this recipe has got you covered. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed with the results! Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Chicken Piccata
- Total Time: 255-375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if substituting flour)
Description
Convenient and flavorful Italian-inspired Crockpot Chicken Piccata featuring tender chicken in a lemony sauce with capers.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup capers
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat with flour.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer browned chicken to the crockpot.
- In the skillet, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, capers, and garlic powder, then bring to a simmer.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until chicken is fork-tender.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider marinating chicken in lemon juice and garlic beforehand. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300-360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
