Savory Chicken Piccata Pasta

Introduction

Chicken Piccata is a traditional Italian dish that has won the hearts of many with its bright and zesty flavors. In this recipe, we’re marrying the classic chicken piccata with pasta to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s simple enough for a family dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off the excess.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.
5. Add the lemon juice, lemon slices, and capers to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce for 2 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and smooth.
7. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the skillet, tossing in the sauce to coat.
8. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce, combining until the pasta is well coated.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Be sure to rinse the capers to remove any excess brine, which could make the dish too salty.
• If the sauce is too tart for your taste, adjust by adding a little extra butter or a splash of heavy cream.
• Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Piccata Pasta is a delightful dish that’s sure to please. The brightness of the lemon and the salty pop of the capers create a harmonious balance with the buttery sauce. This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. Enjoy this delectable dish any night of the week for a dinner that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.