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Homemade Lemon Pepper Butter Chicken Piccata over Angel Hair photo

Lemon Pepper Butter Chicken Piccata over Angel Hair

This Lemon Pepper Butter Chicken Piccata over Angel Hair is a zesty, buttery, and easy-to-make dinner that impresses with bold flavors and delicate pasta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts tender and lean for perfect searing
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for dredging the chicken to create a light crust
  • Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melts into a rich, velvety sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing and flavor depth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice brightens and balances the richness
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest adds extra lemon fragrance and flavor
  • 1 cup chicken broth forms the savory base of the sauce
  • 1/4 cup capers drained – delivers that signature piccata briny pop
  • 2 cloves garlic minced – infuses the dish with aromatic warmth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped – freshens and garnishes the plate beautifully
  • 8 ounces angel hair pasta cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with the sauce
  • Lemon slices for garnish – optional but adds a lovely touch

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fine grater or zester
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and lemon pepper if you like an extra zing. Dredge each breast in the all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions, usually 3-4 minutes for al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  3. Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on one side, about 4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until cooked through, about 3-5 more minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the capers and remaining butter, whisking until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let them warm through for a minute or two. Toss the cooked angel hair pasta in the sauce or serve it alongside the chicken, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Notes

  • Store leftover chicken and sauce separately from pasta to prevent sogginess.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  • Fresh lemon zest adds vibrant flavor—avoid the bitter white pith when zesting.
  • Add seasonal ingredients like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for a twist.