Tender pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a luscious Mediterranean-style cream sauce with garlic, lemon, sun-dried tomatoes, and briny capers β served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti.
This dish balances creamy richness with bright, savory Mediterranean flavors for a truly elegant meal.
π§ Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g total)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- Β½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Β½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- ΒΎ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- ΒΌ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- Juice of Β½ lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or linguine
- Extra Parmesan, for garnish
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally (if thick) to make even cutlets, about Β½ inch thick.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 4β5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti or linguine in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Drain, toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil, and set aside.
3. Make the Mediterranean Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet (donβt wipe it clean!), reduce heat to medium.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and capers, cooking for 1β2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2β3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Stir and simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for another 2β3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add chopped parsley for a fresh Mediterranean touch.
5. Serve
- Place a serving of pasta on each plate, top with a chicken breast, and spoon generous sauce over the top.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a few extra capers or sun-dried tomato pieces.
π· Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil, lemon, and oregano.
- Pair with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Add warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce!
π‘ Tips & Variations
- For extra Mediterranean flair: add chopped olives or artichoke hearts.
- To lighten it up: use Greek yogurt instead of cream, and reduce cheese slightly.
- For spice lovers: add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautΓ©ing the garlic.
- Gluten-free option: serve over gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
β€οΈ Why Youβll Love It
This dish brings together the best of the Mediterranean β olive oil, garlic, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, and lemon β with the comforting richness of creamy pasta. Itβs indulgent yet balanced, and perfect for an elegant dinner or weekend meal.