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Crispy Skin Chicken Breasts with Tangy Lemon Caper Sauce

crispy skin chicken breasts - featured image

A straightforward and flavorful recipe featuring crispy skin chicken breasts paired with a bright, tangy lemon caper sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on, bone-in chicken breasts (or skin-on boneless as substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted cold butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly score the skin if it curls during cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Place the chicken breasts skin side down in a cold, dry cast iron skillet. Do not preheat the pan. Turn heat to medium-low.
  3. Cook undisturbed until the skin is golden brown and crisp, about 12-15 minutes. Lower heat if skin starts to burn.
  4. Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes.
  6. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons cold butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Add lemon juice and zest, plus rinsed capers. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine flavors.
  8. Spoon the warm lemon caper sauce over the chicken breasts, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Start cooking chicken skin side down in a cold pan to render fat slowly and achieve crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness. Rest chicken before serving to lock in juices. Rinse capers before use to reduce excess saltiness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with neutral oil like avocado or extra olive oil. Avoid overcrowding pan; cook in batches if needed. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken skin, lemon caper sauce, chicken breasts, easy dinner, quick recipe, weeknight meal, gluten-free, dairy-free option