Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken combines the bold flavors of fresh pesto with the crispy crunch of Parmesan-coated chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. This meal is a perfect balance of tender pasta, rich, herbaceous pesto, and golden, crispy chicken for a flavor-packed experience. Whether you’re feeding the family, entertaining guests, or simply craving something satisfying, this dish promises to be a hit. The crispy chicken and creamy pesto pasta are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh basil pesto and crispy Parmesan chicken creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite pasta type and adjust seasonings according to personal preference for unique variations.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it perfect for entertaining guests while still being easy to prepare.
Tools and Preparation
To create Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick frying pan: Ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, leading to perfectly crispy results.
- Large pot for boiling pasta: Allows ample space for pasta to cook properly without clumping together.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients like breadcrumbs and seasonings before coating the chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
- Press gently to ensure that the coating sticks well.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Add coated chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Add your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine with Pesto
- In a large bowl, toss drained pasta with your choice of basil pesto. If desired, add in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice the crispy Parmesan chicken into strips and serve over a bed of pesto pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken!
How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Serving Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is all about enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.
Use Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh Basil: Garnish your dish with whole basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a deliciously salty finish.
Pair with a Salad
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a refreshing contrast.
Add a Zesty Touch
- Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta, enhancing the flavors.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offer chili flakes as a topping option.
Make it Family-Style
- Large Serving Platter: Present the pasta and chicken on a large platter for a communal dining experience that encourages everyone to dig in.
How to Perfect Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Perfecting your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is easy with these handy tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality olive oil and fresh pesto will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy by using a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta al dente adds texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying chicken, avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Pairing your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover pesto sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor and colorful presentation to your plate.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that balances the meal.
- Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and bright color, enhancing visual appeal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a delightful crunch that pairs well with this flavorful dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs provide better texture. Use panko or make your own for extra crunch.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken should be golden brown and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without drying out.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t overlook salt and pepper. Proper seasoning elevates the dish’s flavors. Season both the chicken and pasta water generously.
- Not boiling water properly: Always wait for a rolling boil before adding pasta. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Using low-quality pesto: The quality of pesto significantly affects the dish’s flavor. Opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought version.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
- For longer storage, freeze the dish in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
- Consider separating the chicken and pasta before freezing for best texture upon reheating.
Reheating Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual portions on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken:
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work great!
What type of pesto is best?
Homemade basil pesto offers exceptional flavor, but high-quality store-bought versions can also work well.
How do I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing cheese slightly for fewer calories while maintaining flavor.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble everything earlier in the day and then bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is an appealing dish that balances rich flavors and textures beautifully. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining friends. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings to your taste. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. This dish features tender pasta tossed in a vibrant basil pesto, topped with succulent, crispy chicken coated in golden Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families and gatherings alike. The aromatic blend of fresh herbs and crunchy textures ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan to elevate the presentation and impress your diners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 12 oz pasta (like spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat; cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Boil salted water in a large pot; add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain.
- Toss drained pasta with basil pesto.
- Slice crispy chicken and serve over the pesto pasta, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
