If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, you've probably tried Chicken Piccata. This flavorful dish is made from chicken breasts that are lightly coated in flour, sautéed in butter, and braised in a tangy lemon-butter sauce. However, with 870 calories in a 17.6 oz serving, it can be a high-calorie meal option.

In addition to the high calorie content, Chicken Piccata is also high in sodium, cholesterol, and fat. One serving of Chicken Piccata contains approximately 263mg of cholesterol, 1,212mg of sodium, and 46g of fat. However, Chicken Piccata is also a good source of protein, with one serving containing 48g of protein.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, preparation, and health benefits of Chicken Piccata. Additionally, we'll look at ways to reduce the calorie content of the dish and compare it to other popular chicken dishes.

Calories in Chicken Piccata

As previously mentioned, a 17.6 oz serving of Chicken Piccata contains approximately 870 calories. The majority of the calories come from the chicken breasts, which are relatively low in calories on their own. However, the flour coating, butter, and lemon sauce all add to the overall calorie count. If you're trying to reduce your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and limit the amount of added butter and flour used in the recipe.

Ingredients of Chicken Piccata

The basic ingredients for Chicken Piccata include chicken breasts, flour or cornstarch, butter, lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. While these ingredients may vary slightly depending on the recipe, they all contribute to the dish's unique flavor profile. If you're trying to make a healthier version of the dish, you can opt for a lighter flour coating, use less butter, and limit the amount of sodium in the chicken broth.

Preparation of Chicken Piccata

To prepare Chicken Piccata, start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Then, coat the chicken in flour and shake off any excess. Melt butter in a skillet and add the chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until it's golden brown and cooked through. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers to the pan, and simmer until the sauce has thickened. Serve the chicken with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving size of Chicken Piccata

The standard serving size for Chicken Piccata is around 4 oz. However, this can vary depending on the recipe and the individual's dietary needs. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes if you're trying to control your calorie intake.

How to reduce calories in Chicken Piccata

One way to reduce the calorie content of Chicken Piccata is to use a lighter flour coating on the chicken. Additionally, you can use less butter in the recipe and substitute low-sodium chicken broth for regular broth. You can also use a smaller portion of chicken and bulk up the dish with more vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Health benefits of Chicken Piccata

Despite its high calorie and fat content, Chicken Piccata offers some health benefits. For example, the dish is a good source of protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Additionally, the lemon juice and capers in the recipe provide immune-boosting vitamin C and antioxidants. However, it's important to enjoy Chicken Piccata in moderation and balance it with plenty of fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables.

Chicken Piccata vs other chicken dishes

Compared to other popular chicken dishes, Chicken Piccata can be higher in calories and fat. For example, a 4 oz serving of Chicken Alfredo contains approximately 780 calories and 48g of fat, while a 4 oz serving of Chicken Parmesan contains around 400 calories and 20g of fat. However, by making some simple modifications to the recipe, you can reduce the calorie and fat content of Chicken Piccata while still enjoying its unique flavor profile.

Chicken Piccata variations

While the classic version of Chicken Piccata is made with lemon-butter sauce and capers, there are many variations of the dish that incorporate different flavors and ingredients. For example, you can make a Mediterranean-inspired version of the dish by adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Or, you can make a healthier version by using almond flour instead of white flour and topping the dish with a fresh tomato and basil salsa.

Chicken Piccata side dishes

When it comes to serving Chicken Piccata, there are many side dishes that complement the dish's bold flavors and textures. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Experiment with different side dishes to find the perfect match for your Chicken Piccata.

Making Chicken Piccata at home

Making Chicken Piccata at home is a great way to control the ingredients and the calorie content of the dish. To start, find a recipe that fits your dietary needs and preferences. Make sure to read the recipe thoroughly and have all the ingredients on hand before you start cooking. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredient substitutions and variations to find the perfect version of Chicken Piccata for you.