Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances flavor and simplicity. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust and vibrant pasta enveloped in rich basil pesto. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The crispy chicken adds delightful texture, while the creamy pesto makes every bite a joy. Customize it to your liking by swapping proteins or adding seasonal veggies. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly.
- Cook chicken in the hot skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water in a pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and toss with basil pesto, adding fresh lemon juice if desired.
- Slice the crispy chicken and serve it atop the pesto-coated pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (320g)
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 130mg