Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
A flavorful and easy-to-make Pesto Pasta topped with crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken, combining tender pasta tossed in vibrant pesto sauce with a crunchy, cheesy chicken finish for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- Salt, for pasta water
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Pesto
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Bread the Chicken: Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs seasoned with salt and pepper, and one with grated Parmesan cheese. Coat each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in egg mixture, and finally press into Parmesan cheese evenly to coat the surface.
- Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/75°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- Toss Pasta with Pesto: In the pot or a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the pesto pasta and top with the sliced crispy Parmesan chicken. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pesto for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste.
- To keep chicken crispy, do not overcrowd the pan when frying.
- Parmesan cheese helps create a flavorful and crunchy coating for the chicken.
- To lower calories, use lean chicken breast and moderate the amount of oil used for frying.
- Leftover pesto pasta can be refrigerated and reheated gently with added moisture to prevent dryness.
Keywords: pesto pasta, crispy chicken, Parmesan chicken, Italian pasta recipe, easy dinner, chicken pasta
