Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is one of my absolute favorites. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. The crispy chicken adds such a delightful crunch, while the rich pesto envelops the pasta in a vibrant green hug. Trust me, this recipe will leave your loved ones asking for seconds!

What makes this dish even more special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip it up, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that looks as good as it tastes?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the crispy chicken and creamy pesto pasta. It’s a sure way to please everyone at the table.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
• Deliciously customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find at your local grocery store. Gather these goodies to create your scrumptious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken:

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 (optional)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using turkey breast or even breaded tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the pasta: While spaghetti and penne are classics, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer—fusilli or farfalle would work beautifully!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach for an extra dose of color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your pesto before mixing it with the pasta.

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Next, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow bowl. This crispy coating will give your chicken that irresistible crunch! Dip each chicken breast into the mixture until well coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add your breaded chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. This step is essential because it locks in all those flavors and gives you that delicious crispy texture.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

While your chicken is cooking, boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures that every bite of pasta has just the right amount of chewiness!

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Pesto

Once drained, return the pasta to the pot and stir in your basil pesto along with fresh lemon juice if using. This step enhances all those lovely flavors we’re going for—creamy, herbaceous goodness.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Slice your crispy chicken into strips and serve on top of a generous portion of pesto pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired! Your beautiful plate is now ready to impress friends or simply indulge in yourself.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can make your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken even better!

• Choose high-quality ingredients: Using fresh basil for your pesto and good-quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavors of your dish and make it taste restaurant-worthy.

• Pasta cooking timing: Cook your pasta just until al dente. This ensures it holds up well when mixed with the pesto and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken.

• Adjust pesto to taste: If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to add more pesto to your pasta. Personalizing the amount makes the dish truly yours!

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like parsley or arugula into your pesto for a unique twist on traditional flavors.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Presentation can take your meal from simple to stunning! Here are some ideas to serve this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Toss a few fresh basil leaves on top of your plated dish for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese not only looks beautiful but also enhances the cheesy flavor of the meal.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their pasta, adding brightness and enhancing all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover pesto sauce on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta while adding crispness and freshness, making it an excellent companion.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon zest provide a refreshing side that balances out the meal’s richness.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re ready to create not only a delicious dish but also an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every bite of your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta and chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy stored leftovers within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken:

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought basil pesto saves time and still delivers delicious flavor. Just make sure to choose one without any added preservatives.

What can I serve alongside Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a heartier meal!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pesto Pasta, simply skip the chicken and add grilled vegetables or chickpeas for protein. The pesto pasta alone is vibrant and satisfying!

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that adds umami flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your experience; I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!