Creamy Chicken Piccata Penne for a Quick Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add extra flavor, consider adding a small amount of minced garlic when making the sauce. Sauté it for thirty seconds in the skillet before adding the sauce and lemon juice.

This simple addition enhances the aromatic profile of the dish. Also, ensure the skillet is not too hot when adding the sauce, as this prevents it from scorching and helps maintain a smooth, velvety texture throughout the cooking process.

Serving the dish in warmed bowls can help keep the sauce creamy for longer. If the pasta sits for a while, the sauce may absorb into the noodles. To counteract this, add a tiny splash of warm water or pasta water just before serving to refresh the sauce.

This ensures every bite remains as flavorful and moist as the moment the dish was finished, providing a consistent experience from the first to the last bite.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Version: Add two cloves of minced garlic and a teaspoon of dried oregano to the skillet while making the sauce to introduce a more aromatic and herbal flavor profile.
• Spicy Piccata: Incorporate a half-teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes during the sauce-making phase to provide a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat

Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta may soak up some of the sauce over time, so expect the consistency to change slightly upon reheating. Ensure the food cools down to room temperature within two hours before placing it in the refrigerator to maintain quality and food safety. Properly stored, the dish will remain flavorful for up to three days.

The chicken can be cut and the pasta can be cooked ahead of time. Store the cooked pasta with a light drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. The sauce is best made fresh just before serving, as sauces can lose their texture when cooled and reheated.

By preparing the individual components, you can significantly reduce the active cooking time needed when you are ready to assemble and serve the meal.

Serving ideas

Serve this creamy chicken piccata penne in large, shallow bowls to showcase the pasta and chicken. A simple side of steamed vegetables or a light green salad complements the richness of the sauce perfectly. The bright lemon notes pair well with a crisp white wine, though the dish is satisfying enough to be served on its own as a complete main course for any dinner occasion.

For an elegant presentation, garnish the finished dish with a little bit of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest. This adds a pop of color and freshness that highlights the citrus flavors already present in the sauce.

Ensure the plates are warm before serving to maintain the temperature of the creamy sauce, providing a comforting and delicious meal that is sure to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Chicken Piccata Penne for a Quick Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 20 minRest 3 minTotal 33 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup creamy sauce, store-bought or made ahead
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

1. Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for at least 3 minutes.
2. In the same skillet, pour in the creamy sauce and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the capers and the fresh spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened slightly to a glossy consistency.
3. Add the cooked penne pasta and the rested chicken pieces back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy lemon sauce. Serve immediately while hot and steaming.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

620

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

55 g

Fat

28 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.