Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Caper Sauce is a zesty, tangy, and savory sauce that elevates everything from salmon and chicken to vegetables and pasta. Made with fresh lemon juice, briny capers, and a rich buttery base, it delivers a burst of flavor that balances richness with brightness. This versatile sauce comes together quickly and makes even the simplest dish feel gourmet.

ingredients

Lemon Caper Sauce (for Salmon, Chicken & More!!)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter
olive oil
garlic
capers
lemon juice
lemon zest
chicken broth or white wine
fresh parsley
salt
black pepper
optional: cornstarch or flour (for thickening)

directions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with a splash of olive oil.

Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Stir in capers and cook for 1 minute to release flavor.

Pour in lemon juice and zest, followed by chicken broth or white wine.

Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For a thicker sauce, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry or flour and cook until desired consistency is reached.

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley.

Serve warm over salmon, chicken, vegetables, or pasta.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 7-10 minutes
Total time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of cream for a creamy lemon caper version.

Use shallots instead of garlic for a milder flavor.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Swap parsley for fresh dill or basil for a different herb profile.

Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for extra tang.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
If thickened in storage, add a splash of broth or water to loosen.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon Caper Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and reheats well.

Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, if you skip flour or use a gluten-free thickener.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

What does this sauce pair best with?
Salmon, chicken breasts, shrimp, roasted vegetables, and even pasta.

Do I need to rinse the capers?
No, but draining them well before adding is recommended.

Can I freeze Lemon Caper Sauce?
Freezing isn’t ideal due to the butter content, but it can be done if needed.

What kind of broth is best?
Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth is a good alternative.

Can I use wine instead of broth?
Yes, dry white wine adds great depth of flavor.

Can I skip butter for a dairy-free version?
Yes, use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

How do I make it thicker without flour?
Use a cornstarch slurry or reduce the sauce longer for natural thickening.

Conclusion

Lemon Caper Sauce is a simple yet sophisticated way to enhance your meals with bold, fresh flavor. Whether you’re dressing up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce delivers vibrant taste and versatility in every spoonful. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.