Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss at Home

Name: Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Cutlets (Tender, thinly sliced for quick cooking.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Swap with gluten-free flour if needed.); 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (Boosts flavor and adds richness.); 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Ideal for searing the chicken.); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (Substitute with chicken broth for no alcohol.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (Brightens the sauce.); 4 tablespoons Salted Butter (Provides richness.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Adds aromatic depth.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for aroma.); 2 tablespoons Capers (Rinse to reduce saltiness.); 1 cup Instant Polenta (Serves as a creamy base.); 2 tablespoons Basil Pesto (Infuses polenta with rich creaminess.); 1 bunch Asparagus (Offers a crisp and vibrant color.)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on August 26, 2025

Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss

There’s a unique joy in the kitchen when the vibrant scents of cooking fill the air, and my latest creation, Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss, truly captures that essence. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a quick and easy family favorite that delivers a comforting balance of flavor and nourishment, perfect for those bustling weeknights. The tender chicken bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce pairs flawlessly with the creamy pesto polenta, while bright asparagus adds a crisp finish. Not only does this recipe offer a delightful culinary experience, but it also allows you to bypass takeout without sacrificing time or effort. Ready to elevate your cooking game and bring a taste of Italy to your table?

Why Choose This Lemon Butter Dish?

Quick Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, taking only about 30 minutes from prep to plate, ensuring your family enjoys wholesome home-cooked meals even on hectic evenings.

Family-Friendly Flavor: The savory combination of lemon and garlic creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also kid-approved, making mealtime a joyful experience for everyone at your table.

Versatile Ingredients: Swap out asparagus for seasonal veggies or even replace chicken with firm fish, allowing you to customize this meal based on your family’s taste and dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour substitute, so everyone can enjoy this delightful meal without worry.

Comforting Textures: With a crispy chicken topping creamy pesto polenta, your taste buds will be treated to a perfect harmony of textures in every bite!

For those craving something a bit different, try pairing this dish with a fresh salad or even my Cheesy Chicken Roll for a comforting combo that satisfies.

Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Cutlets – Tender, thinly sliced for quick cooking.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken’s flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates a crispy coating; swap with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Grated Parmesan – Boosts flavor and adds richness to the chicken.

For the Sauce
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the chicken, adding depth.
• Dry White Wine – Enhances the sauce’s complexity; substitute with chicken broth for no alcohol.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce, key for that zesty flavor.
• Salted Butter – Provides richness; unsalted works too.
• Fresh Thyme – Adds aromatic depth; dried thyme can substitute.
• Garlic – Minced for that irresistible aroma.
• Capers – Briny flavor that complements the dish; rinse to reduce saltiness.

For the Polenta
• Instant Polenta – Serves as a creamy base; easy to cook until thick.
• Basil Pesto – Infuses polenta with rich creaminess, use store-bought for convenience.

For the Vegetables
• Asparagus – Offers a crisp and vibrant color; can be swapped with green beans or zucchini for variety.

This Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta can easily become your go-to weeknight dinner, bringing a taste of Italy right to your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Season your chicken cutlets generously with kosher salt and black pepper. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour and grated Parmesan to create a flavorful coating. Dredge each cutlet in the mixture, ensuring an even layer, then set aside as you prepare to sear, which will give your Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata its delightful crispness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the coated chicken cutlets in the skillet. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while you continue.

Step 3: Cook the Asparagus
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Once melted, add fresh asparagus, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, tossing occasionally until the asparagus turns tender and bright green. This vibrant vegetable will complement your Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, increase the heat slightly and add minced garlic, rinsed capers, and fresh thyme. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and the juice of 1 fresh lemon. Let it simmer for about 1 minute before returning the chicken cutlets to the pan, allowing them to absorb the sauce flavors for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Polenta
While the chicken simmers, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of instant polenta, stirring continuously. Cook for about 5 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto and ½ cup of grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve with Style
On each plate, scoop a generous serving of pesto polenta as the base. Place the seared chicken cutlets on top, accompanied by the sautéed asparagus. Drizzle the lemon-garlic sauce generously over the chicken, bringing the entire dish together. Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance in your Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Bliss.

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata

Fridge: Store the Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the chicken’s tenderness and keeps the flavors fresh.

Freezer: If you want to save leftovers, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently from frozen for the best results.

Polenta Storage: Keep cooked pesto polenta refrigerated in a separate container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to rehydrate it.

Reheating: To reheat, warm chicken and polenta separately in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring the integrity of the dish is maintained.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta

Elevate your dining experience by pairing with delightful sides that complement this zesty dish beautifully.

Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery side that’s perfect for soaking up the lemon-garlic sauce, enhancing every bite.
Fresh Side Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy polenta and tender chicken.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, protein-rich side brings a delightful texture and pairs well with the vibrant flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and additional warming flavors to create a wholesome meal.
Lemonade or White Wine: A chilled glass of lemonade or a crisp white wine perfectly balances the dish’s richness while complementing its citrus notes.
Berry Tart: For dessert, a light and fruity berry tart offers a sweet yet refreshing end to your meal, keeping with the bright theme of the night!

Expert Tips for Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata Bliss

Even Thickness: Ensure your chicken cutlets are pounded to an even thickness before cooking. This promotes uniform cooking and prevents dryness.
Watch the Asparagus: Sauté your asparagus just until it’s tender and bright green. Overcooking will lead to mushy texture; a slight crisp is the goal!
Gluten-Free Options: If you need a gluten-free version, opt for a certified gluten-free flour substitute. It works wonderfully in the lemon butter chicken piccata recipe.
Avoid Bitter Garlic: Be cautious not to overcook the garlic in your sauce. It should be fragrant, not browned, to keep the flavors fresh and zesty.
Storage Tips: When storing leftovers, keep the chicken and polenta separate to maintain their textures. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s integrity.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can season and dredge the chicken cutlets up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator to maintain their fabulous flavor and prevent drying out. Additionally, the polenta and sautéed asparagus can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just reheat them gently before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, quickly sear the chicken and finish with the lemon-garlic sauce. This way, you’ll have a delightful dinner ready with minimal effort, ensuring a wholesome family meal any night of the week!

Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Each variation opens up a world of delightful flavors and textures.

Seasonal Veggies: Swap asparagus for your favorite seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers. This adds delightful color and freshness to your dish.
Firm Fish Option: Replace chicken with firm fish like Mahi Mahi for a lighter, seafood twist. It brings a whole new flavor profile while maintaining that zesty lemon touch.
Flavor Enhancers: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for added bursts of flavor. These ingredients infuse each bite with a Mediterranean flair that enhances the overall dish.
Creamy Texture Boost: For extra richness, stir in some Greek yogurt before serving. This not only makes the dish creamier but also adds a lovely tang.
Heat Level Adjustment: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your sauce if you’re craving a little heat. This subtle kick will elevate the dish into a delightful culinary experience.
Protein Swap: Try using cauliflower steaks coated with the same seasoning for a vegetarian alternative. It’s a satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors without meat.
Zesty Herb Addition: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley instead of thyme. This twist can refresh the dish and complement the lemon perfectly.
Pasta Pairing: For a comforting pasta night, serve the chicken over your favorite pasta instead of polenta. Create a new family favorite that caters to everyone’s cravings!

Whether you’re mixing things up for picky eaters or simply looking to explore new flavors, these variations ensure your Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta stays exciting! For more delightful recipes, check out my Healthy Southwest Chicken or Chicken Adobo Mexican.

Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken cutlets should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use thinly sliced chicken cutlets. This ensures they cook quickly and remain tender. If you can’t find them pre-sliced, you can slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally to achieve the same effect.

How should I store Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata leftovers?
Very conveniently! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the chicken and pesto polenta to maintain their individual textures and flavors.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, which helps maintain the chicken’s moisture.

What should I do if my polenta becomes too thick?
Not to worry! If your polenta becomes too thick upon cooling, simply stir in a little warm water or chicken broth while reheating to loosen it up. Continue adding until you achieve your desired consistency.

Is there a gluten-free option for the flour in this recipe?
Very much so! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or even almond flour. It works wonderfully for dredging the chicken, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this scrumptious Lemon Butter Chicken Piccata with Pesto Polenta!

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen asparagus can be a convenient option. Just ensure to sauté it for an extra minute or two, as frozen veggies may need a bit more time to become tender.