Chicken Piccata

This is one of my favorite dinners.  The recipe is adapted from Life in the Lofthouse blog.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise

1 cup Italian style bread crumbs

1 egg, beaten

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 cup chicken stock

1/4 cup capers, rinsed

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

8 ounces angel hair pasta

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pound chicken, using a mallet, between waxed paper so they are about 1/4" thick.  You want a thin cutlet.

Pour the bread crumbs in a shallow plate or dish.  Pour the beaten egg in a separates shallow dish.  

Take one chicken cutlet and dredge in the egg and then in the breadcrumbs.  Shake off any excess breadcrumbs and place on a plate.  Repeat with all cutlets.

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.  Place two of the coated chicken cutlets into the skillet.  Cook on each side for 4 minutes.  Once thoroughly cooked, place on a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.  Let the butter melt and then cook the other two pieces of coated chicken, for 4 minutes on each side.  Remove from skillet and keep warm with other chicken.

Pour the lemon juice, chicken stock, and capers into the warm skillet.  Stir and scrape up any of the loose brown bits.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat slightly and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.  

Meanwhile, cook angel hair pasta according to package directions.   Drain water and add 2 tablespoons butter to pasta and 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Serve chicken with sauce and pasta.  Garnish with fresh parsley and more grated parmesan cheese.

Serves 4