Cookaholics Bulletin Board

I'm going to make either chicken piccata or marsala for a dinner party, but am hoping someone can give me some hints for preparing most of it in advance of our guests arriving. I've only prepared both of these dishes right before serving, but would love to have more time with our guests and less time in the kitchen this time. Advice? btw, I'm open to suggestions for other things, I just seem to be drawing a blank tonight. Thanks....

I'd love to help, but I haven't made Chicken Piccata in years and never for a party.

I wouldn't make the chicken ahead for this, although you could coat it prior. You could also do the pan sauce ahead completely, just shy of finishing it with butter. Then when your guests are there all you'd have to do is saute the chicken, heat the sauce, and finish it with butter.

Amy

If you want a truly make ahead chicken dish that's easy & tasty, consider Chicken Marbella. It feeds a small crowd.
http://leitesculinaria.com/5348/recipes-silver-palate-chicken-marbella.html

It would drive me crazy to be sauteing with guests in the other room, unless of course they were good friends, in which case they'd be cooking beside me.

I think you are all right, it will be a mistake. A friend has asked me to make 3 lasagnas for a function she is having, so I think I'll just do one more and be done with it! Not as unique, but better for a dinner party. Thanks for the help, though.

Glad you changed your mind. I always need to remind myself to plan party foods that actually allow me to enjoy the party. it is always a struggle to find party worthy food that doesn't leave me looking a feeling like the dog's dinner.

Mary