Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake Recipe: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
When it comes to cozy and flavorful dinners, the Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake stands out as a perfect blend of creamy indulgence and zesty freshness. This dish takes the traditional chicken piccata — known for its tangy lemon and caper sauce — and transforms it into a hearty baked pasta that’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
What Is Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake?
The Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake combines the best of two worlds: Italian-inspired comfort food and restaurant-quality flavor. It features tender chicken pieces, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety lemon-butter sauce made even more luxurious with cream and cheese. The entire mixture is baked until bubbly and golden, offering a comforting, cheesy crust on top.
This version adds a unique twist to the classic chicken piccata by making it a one-dish wonder that’s both creamy and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this irresistible dish, gather the following ingredients:
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2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
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12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons capers, drained
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1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Piccata Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream.
3. Add Flavor
Stir in lemon juice, capers, and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken slightly before adding salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
5. Bake It to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley and a few extra capers for that signature piccata flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
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Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and cheese creates an irresistible texture.
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Zesty and Bright: Lemon and capers cut through the richness for perfect flavor balance.
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Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this mild yet flavorful pasta bake.
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Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Tips for the Best Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake
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Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
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Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
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For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
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Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy crust.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake with:
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A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
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Garlic bread or a warm baguette.
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A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Chicken Piccata Pasta Bake recipe is a delightful comfort dish that transforms a restaurant classic into a family favorite. With its creamy lemon sauce, savory chicken, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that delivers both elegance and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this pasta bake is sure to impress everyone at the table.