What To Know
- Get most of the work done the day before, leaving only the final cooking step on the day you plan to eat.
- Store the cooked chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Making chicken piccata the day before is a great way to save time and enjoy a delicious meal.
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make. But can you make chicken piccata the day before? The answer is yes! With a few simple tips, you can have this flavorful dish ready to enjoy the next day.
Benefits of Making Chicken Piccata the Day Before:
- Convenience: Prepare the dish ahead of time, freeing up your time on the day you want to serve it.
- Improved flavor: Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Time-saving: Get most of the work done the day before, leaving only the final cooking step on the day you plan to eat.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Piccata the Day Before:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in flour.
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and rosemary.
- Add the chicken breasts and stir to coat.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Cook the Chicken:
- The next day, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the white wine and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the wine by half.
- Add the capers and lemon slices to the skillet.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Serve the Chicken Piccata:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Tips for Storing and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store the cooked chicken piccata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat the chicken piccata over medium heat in a skillet until warmed through.
Variations:
- Use different cuts of chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be used.
- Add other vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce.
- Try different herbs: Thyme, basil, or sage can be used instead of oregano and rosemary.
The Bottom Line:
Making chicken piccata the day before is a great way to save time and enjoy a delicious meal. By following the steps outlined above, you can have this classic Italian dish ready to serve with minimal effort. Bon appétit!
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I marinate the chicken for longer than overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. However, any longer than that, and the chicken may become too acidic.
2. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking.
3. What can I serve with chicken piccata?
Chicken piccata can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
