Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale

If you’re looking for a deliciously creamy, tangy dish that brings together the heartiness of chicken, the richness of pasta, and the vibrant nutrition of kale, then look no further than this Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and zesty capers, all enveloped in a luscious sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This dish checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser: it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The addition of baby kale not only boosts the nutrient profile but also adds a lovely color contrast to the dish. The bright acidity from the lemon juice and brined capers cuts through the creaminess, providing a refreshing balance. Plus, who doesn’t love pasta? This Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale combines the comforting textures of fettuccine with the satisfying bite of chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder, for seasoning
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, for a rich sauce
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, for sautéing
• 1 shallot, finely chopped for flavor
• 8 oz. baby bella mushrooms, sliced for earthiness
• 6 oz. baby kale, for nutrition and color
• 3/4 cup chicken stock, for a savory base
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, for brightness
• 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed for tanginess
• 1 lb. cooked fettuccine pasta, to hold it all together
• Coarsely chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To whip up this Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale, you’ll require a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large skillet: For sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Pot for cooking pasta: To boil the fettuccine to perfection.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping the shallot and slicing mushrooms.
• Serving dishes: To present your delicious creation.

Method: Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the halved chicken breasts with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a lovely crust when you cook the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the floured chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shallot and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the chopped shallot and sliced baby bella mushrooms. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the shallots are translucent and the mushrooms are softened. The residual flavors from the chicken will enhance the taste of the mushrooms.

Step 4: Add the Kale and Liquid Ingredients

Stir in the baby kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it has wilted. Pour in the chicken stock and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. Stir in the rinsed capers and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, sprinkle coarsely chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Year-Round Variations

This Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale is versatile, and you can easily mix things up:

• Swap the Chicken: Use shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Vegetable Variations: Add spinach, broccoli, or asparagus instead of kale for a seasonal twist.
• Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
• Herb Infusions: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant touch.

Steer Clear of These

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked through but not dried out.
• Too Much Flour: Avoid adding too much flour when dredging the chicken; a light coating is sufficient.
• Skipping the Deglazing: Don’t skip the deglazing step; it adds essential flavor to the sauce.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers of this delightful dish, here’s how to store them properly:

• In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For Freezing: Place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken stock to restore creaminess.

Questions People Ask

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply cook the pasta right before serving. Combine everything just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for baby kale?

If you can’t find baby kale, you can use baby spinach or regular kale (just be sure to chop it finely). Both will work well in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale is perfect for meal prep. Just store the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed making Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale, you might also love:

• Lemon Garlic Pasta for a zesty twist.
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta for a vegetarian option.
• Creamy Vegan Pasta for a plant-based alternative.
• Chicken Alfredo Pasta for another comforting favorite.

That’s a Wrap

In conclusion, this Creamy Chicken Picata Pasta with Kale is an elegant yet simple dish that can elevate any meal. With its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious kale makes it a standout recipe that you’ll want to repeat time and time again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Your taste buds are in for a real treat.