Name: Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh salmon (cut into 4 pieces); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & pepper (to taste); Flour (for dredging); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon; 1–2 tablespoons brined capers (drained); 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but comes together in under 20 minutes, this Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender, flaky salmon fillets are enveloped in a luscious, tangy lemon sauce studded with briny capers and finished with a rich creaminess that takes the classic piccata to a whole new level. It’s the perfect balance of bright and indulgent, making it a total crowd-pleaser any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan with a handle sits on a white marbled surface. In the first image, four pieces of raw pink meat coated in a light layer of white flour or powder are placed side by side inside the pan. In the second image, the same pan holds a brown sauce with many small, round green peppercorns floating on top, spreading evenly across the pan's surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because the ingredient list is simple and straightforward, yet every item plays a crucial role. Fresh salmon delivers the star protein, while lemon juice and zest bring a fresh zing that elevates the flavors. The capers add little bursts of salty, vinegary goodness that contrast beautifully with the rich cream sauce. Butter and olive oil create a perfect sear, and finishing touches like garlic powder and parsley round out the dish with warmth and vibrant color.

Salmon (1 pound, cut into 4 pieces): Fresh salmon provides the flavorful, tender base for this dish.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle, savory note without overpowering the delicate fish.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
Flour (for dredging): Helps create a slight crust on the salmon and thickens the sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Brings richness and a silky texture to the sauce and helps with browning the salmon.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and adds a fruity layer of flavor.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Forms the savory base of the sauce and helps deglaze the pan.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons) + zest of 1 lemon: Infuses the dish with bright citrus freshness.
Brined capers (1–2 tablespoons, drained): Provide a punch of briny tang that’s signature to piccata.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds indulgent creaminess that mellows and balances the lemon and capers.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor when serving.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Dredge the Salmon

Start by cutting the salmon into four equal pieces for even cooking. Lightly sprinkle each piece with garlic powder and season generously with salt and pepper. Then, dredge the salmon in flour, making sure all sides are coated. This creates a delicate crust during cooking and helps thicken the sauce later on.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

In a skillet, heat the butter and olive oil together over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the salmon pieces carefully and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want a golden-brown crust, but don’t worry if the fish isn’t cooked through yet—it will finish cooking in the sauce. Once browned, transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce by half. This reduction concentrates the flavors and creates the perfect base for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add Cream and Simmer

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let the sauce bubble softly for 2 to 3 minutes as it thickens and becomes luscious. This step transforms the zesty broth into the signature creamy lemon sauce that makes this Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe so unforgettable.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Salmon in the Sauce

Return the salmon pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat if needed and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. The salmon should be completely cooked through and easily flake with a fork, while the sauce thickens slightly more. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe

A white plate holds three main parts of food arranged in sections: on the left, there is a large scoop of creamy white mashed potatoes with small chunks and a shallow well of light beige sauce with capers on top; on the bottom left, bright green steamed green beans are placed in a neat pile, drizzled with the same light beige sauce and dotted with capers; on the right, a seared salmon fillet with a golden brown top and light pink sides is partially covered with the beige sauce and garnished with small green herb pieces; to the right of the salmon, there is a shiny silver fork resting on the plate; the plate sits on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant green contrast and a burst of herbal brightness that complements the rich sauce perfectly. A thin lemon slice on the side not only looks charming but also invites a little extra citrus whenever you want.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs excellently with simple, comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery garlic noodles, or a fluffy bed of white rice are all great at soaking up that incredible lemon-caper sauce. For a lighter option, steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad balance the richness well.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve each salmon fillet on individual shallow bowls surrounded by the creamy sauce. Garnish with parsley and a lemon twist. Alternatively, plate the salmon atop a vibrant spring pea purée or a bed of sautéed spinach for a restaurant-style presentation that wows guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should keep well for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling; simply stir in a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

Freezing

While salmon dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the salmon and sauce slowly in a skillet over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a small splash of broth or cream helps refresh the texture for a silky finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe?

Fresh salmon will always yield the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen salmon if it’s properly thawed first. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream?

If you’d like to avoid dairy, coconut cream can be a good substitute to keep the sauce creamy, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor. Unsweetened cashew cream is another excellent option that mixes well with the lemon and capers.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin after cooking, mix a little flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. This will thicken it quickly without affecting the flavor.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the lemon juice and capers for a subtle heat that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe?

A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the bright, tangy flavors in the dish beautifully and balances the richness of the cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Salmon Piccata Recipe is truly one of those dishes that never fails to impress — full of zesty brightness, luxurious creaminess, and flaky salmon that makes dinner feel special every single time. I hope you have as much fun making it as you do eating it. Give it a try soon and enjoy every delicious bite!