For a dish that’s elegant yet easy to prepare, Chicken Breasts in Caper Cream Sauce is the way to go. Tender chicken is smothered in a rich and tangy cream sauce with capers, making it a delightful meal that feels fancy but is ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and capers, letting the sauce simmer and thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Return the Chicken: Place the chicken back in the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken warm through for 2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately. The dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken over angel hair or linguine for a complete meal.
- Roasted Asparagus: A side of roasted asparagus adds a crisp, fresh contrast to the rich cream sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich and Flavorful: The cream sauce is luxurious, with a tangy kick from the capers and lemon juice.
- Quick and Easy: Despite its elegant presentation, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes.
- Versatile: The sauce works well with other proteins like pork chops or fish, making it a versatile recipe.
Tips for Success
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Cook until just done, and allow them to rest while you finish the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out to your liking.