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Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken Piccata Pasta is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken with pasta tossed in a light lemon butter sauce. The briny capers add a tangy kick, while a sprinkle of herbs and cheese brings everything together for a simple yet satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Chicken, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces uncooked radiatori pasta
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 6 large garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup drained capers
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • 2 ounces Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Save about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. I like to keep it simple so the sauce shines later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
  1. In the same pan, add garlic and crushed red pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep the heat steady so garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
  1. Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Add Capers and Lemon
  1. Stir in capers and lemon juice. This is where the signature chicken lemon caper pasta flavor comes alive.
Step 7: Finish the Sauce
  1. Add butter cubes and stir until melted and smooth. The sauce should look glossy and slightly thick.
Step 8: Combine Everything
  1. Return the chicken to the pan. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 9: Final Touch
  1. Add Parmesan cheese and parsley. Toss again and taste. Adjust salt if needed.

Notes

✅ Don’t overcook the chicken or it may turn dry
✅ Always taste the sauce before serving
✅ Add pasta water slowly to control sauce texture
✅ Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference
✅ Use good quality Parmesan for better flavor