We can’t think of a better weeknight dinner than chicken cutlet: it’s easy to make, it gets eaten, it’s endlessly adaptable. Nuggies for grown-ups, we call it in our house–and it’s a weekly dinner menu standard around these parts. But it also never stays the same: we change the seasonings; we change the sauces. We know it; we love it. We grow (up) with it.
While our default template is a flour dredge + egg and soy wash + panko and parmesan breading, we do like saucier takes, too, like parmesan or piccata. Make that chicken piccata for kids: that means peas are in for capers, chicken broth for wine in the sauce. All of the flavors are there; all of the unfamiliar stuff is gone. It’s just a tasty and chewy piece of chicken in a lemony sauce that plays nicely with all sorts of carbs and vegetables your kids do like: mashed potatoes, carrots, grits, broccoli, etc. Familiarly different, you might call it–make of it what you will.
Check out our other great chicken recipes!
A Kid-Friendly Twist on a Classic
Chicken piccata is known for its tangy lemon-butter sauce and golden pan-fried chicken—but the traditional version can be a little sharp and salty for little ones. This chicken piccata for kids keeps the bright, zesty flavor parents love, while softening the acidity and richness to make it gentle on younger palates. Served with tender peas and a light pan sauce, it’s an easy dinner that the whole family can enjoy.
Why Parents Love It
This dish doesn’t just taste good—it’s also packed with nutrients that support growing kids:
- Protein for growth – Each serving delivers nearly 16 grams of protein to keep kids fueled and satisfied.
- B vitamins for energy – Niacin and B6 help turn food into energy, making this a naturally energizing dinner.
- Immune support – Vitamin C from peas and lemon gives a gentle boost to little immune systems.
- Minerals for development – Phosphorus and selenium help with strong bones and healthy cells.
- Balanced flavor – Gentle lemon, creamy butter, and sweet peas make this a “grown-up” dish adapted for tiny taste buds.
This balance of flavor + nutrition makes it a win for kids and parents alike.
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what goes into this kid-friendly take on chicken piccata:
- Chicken tenderloins – naturally portioned and easy to cook quickly. If using chicken breasts, slice thinly to match.
- Garlic – adds a gentle savory base without overpowering.
- Green peas – a soft, naturally sweet side that pairs well with lemon sauce.
- Butter – provides richness while keeping the sauce silky and mild.
- All-purpose flour – for lightly dredging, helping the chicken brown.
- Chicken broth (low-sodium) – creates a flavorful but not-too-salty sauce.
- Lemon – for a touch of brightness, used sparingly to avoid harshness.
- Parsley (optional) – for a fresh garnish if your child enjoys herbs.
Steps at a Glance
- Prep the chicken – Pound thin and lightly flour for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken – Sear in butter and olive oil until golden, then set aside.
- Make the sauce – Sauté garlic, add broth and lemon, then whisk in butter.
- Finish with peas – Return chicken to the pan, add peas, and let everything soak in the sauce.
- Serve kid-style – Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and drizzle lightly with sauce.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes! Just slice them thin or pound flat so they cook evenly, similar to cutlets.
What if my child doesn’t like peas?
You can swap in another veggie your child enjoys—like steamed carrots, green beans, or even roasted zucchini.
Is the sauce too tangy for kids?
No—the lemon is balanced with butter and broth to keep the flavor mild. If your child is very sensitive to citrus, use a little less juice.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute a plant-based butter alternative for the same silky sauce.
What should I serve this with?
It pairs especially well with creamy sides like mashed potatoes, polenta, or even buttered noodles for an easy, balanced meal.
Easy and Delicious Chicken Piccata For Kids
Description
A kid-friendly version of the Italian classic, this chicken piccata for kids features tender chicken in a light, lemony sauce that’s mild, flavorful, and easy to enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prep
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Place chicken pieces between two pieces of parchment paper or plastic wrap, then pound flat. Salt pieces generously, cover, and allow to sit in fridge for 30 minutes, if possible. Remove any excess liquid when ready to cook.
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While the chicken rests, mince the garlic into small pieces. Heat up the peas. If using, chop up parsley.
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Cover the bottom of a shallow and flat container with flour; press chicken pieces into flour to coat, shaking off any excess flour.
Cook
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Heat a large pan to Medium. Add in a glug of olive oil, just enough to coat the bottom of the pan, and two tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and slightly brown.
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Add in enough chicken pieces to fill but not crowd the pan. Cook until the side of the chicken facing pan is golden brown, roughly 4-5 minutes; then flip and cook the other side for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and blot out any excess oil. (Note: you will likely need to repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.)
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Add the garlic to the pan and allow to sizzle for roughly 15 seconds, then add chicken broth, zest of lemon, and lemon juice; let liquid boil for 30-60 seconds, then turn heat to Medium Low. Add remaining tablespoon of butter and mix with pan sauce. Return chicken to pan, then add in peas. Turn off heat, but allow peas and chicken to soak in sauce for 2-3 minutes.
Serve
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Cut chicken into appropriate size pieces for your child, then top with a bit of pan sauce and peas; feel free to serve the peas to the side if that’s how your child prefers it. The chicken pairs well with a creamy starch, particularly mashed potatoes or polenta.
Adapt
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Veal would work just as well here; tilapia, too. The sauce can be zhushed in a lot of different ways: add two tablespoons of flour when you add the butter to thicken it, or throw in a glug of oyster or hoisin sauce; a bit of hot sauce or sriracha for yourself can’t hurt, either.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
Serving Size 1 chicken piece + peas + sauce
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 131kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Cholesterol 25mg9%
- Sodium 50mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Vitamin A 37 mcg
- Niacin 6.25 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.18 mg
- Phosphorus 100 mg
- Selenium 11 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
