Introduction
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and savory chicken dish that pairs perfectly with delicate angel hair pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich sauce made from white wine, garlic, capers, and cream, creating a delightful meal that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
⅔ cup all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons olive oil
⅓ cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons capers
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1½ cups chicken stock
⅓ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
8 oz angel hair pasta, cooked, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy a delightful culinary experience with this creamy chicken and pasta recipe that showcases fresh ingredients and simple techniques while delivering rich flavors and a satisfying meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally but not completely through, leaving a hinge. Lay a piece of parchment paper on top and pound the chicken to about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Cut each butterflied chicken breast in half lengthwise, resulting in a total of 4 pieces of chicken.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Place the flour in a wide, shallow dish. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess flour.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and fry them until they are golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Reduce the Wine
Pour the dry white wine into the skillet. Cook the wine for about 1 minute, allowing it to reduce by half.
Step 6: Add Flavorings
Add the unsalted butter, chopped garlic, and capers to the pan. Cook for around 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
Step 7: Create the Sauce
Stir in the lemon juice and chicken stock. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5 minutes, or until it has slightly thickened.
Step 8: Incorporate Cream and Chicken
Stir in the heavy cream, then reintroduce the cooked chicken to the pan.
Step 9: Final Touches
Sprinkle the chopped flat-leaf parsley over the chicken. Turn the chicken in the sauce to coat evenly. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 2 minutes, which allows the sauce to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.
Step 10: Serve
Plate the cooked angel hair pasta and serve the chicken and sauce over the pasta. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Tip on Butterflying Chicken
To butterfly chicken breasts effectively, use a sharp knife and take care to not cut all the way through. Keeping a little hinge intact helps in the cooking process.
For a Healthier Option
You can substitute olive oil for a non-stick cooking spray if you want to reduce the amount of fat.
Substitutions for Cream
If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, consider using half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and chicken stock.
Wine Alternatives
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional chicken stock or a splash of vinegar mixed with water for acidity.
Storage of Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
Cook techniques
Butterflying Chicken Breasts
Butterflying involves slicing the chicken breast horizontally to create a thinner piece. This not only helps it cook faster but also allows for easier pounding to an even thickness.
Pounding Chicken
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the butterflied chicken breast to about ¼ inch thick. This process tenderizes the meat and ensures even cooking.
Seasoning
Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor. Make sure to season both sides for a well-rounded taste.
Dredging in Flour
Coat the seasoned chicken pieces in flour by dredging them in a shallow dish. This creates a crispy exterior when cooked and helps the sauce adhere later.
Searing Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This locks in juices and adds flavor.
Deglazing the Pan
After removing the chicken, pour white wine into the hot skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. This adds depth to the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
Add butter, garlic, and capers to the deglazed pan and sauté until fragrant. This step builds flavor for the sauce.
Thickening the Sauce
Add chicken stock and lemon juice, then simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly. This ensures it coats the chicken and pasta well.
Incorporating Cream
Stir in heavy cream into the thickened sauce for richness and a creamy texture.
Coating Chicken
Return the chicken to the sauce, turn to coat, and simmer for a couple of minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the chicken is covered in the sauce.
Serving
Plate the cooked angel hair pasta and top it with the chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and are usually more tender.
What can I substitute for dry white wine?
You can use chicken broth or a mixture of vinegar and water as a substitute for white wine.
Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a substitute for regular flour.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream in place of heavy cream.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon chicken with capers served over angel hair pasta is a delightful dish that balances rich flavors with a touch of acidity. The combination of tender, sautéed chicken in a velvety sauce creates a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Pairing the dish with fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness, while the white wine and lemon juice contribute depth to the sauce. Enjoy this recipe as a comforting dinner or an elegant dish for guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Piccata
Substitute angel hair pasta with sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus for a lighter side. Add more capers for additional brininess.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Replace lemon juice with heavy cream and parmesan cheese for a rich and cheesy version. Serve with fettuccine instead of angel hair.
Chicken Marsala
Use Marsala wine instead of white wine and add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Serve with your choice of pasta or a bed of risotto.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and fresh herbs before grilling. Serve with a quinoa salad or roasted vegetables.
Chicken Alfredo
Omit capers and garlic. Make a creamy alfredo sauce using butter, cream, and cheese, then toss with fettuccine and grilled chicken for a rich pasta dish.
