Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings smiles around the dinner table, look no further than this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy pesto and crispy chicken is simply irresistible, making it a family favorite that always garners requests for seconds.

What I love most about this dish is not just how delicious it is, but also how quickly it comes together. In just 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant meal that feels special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious on the table fast.
• Family-Friendly: With its crispy chicken and rich pesto, even picky eaters will be asking for more!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Just reheat and toss with pesto when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of fresh pesto with crispy Parmesan chicken creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Options: This recipe can easily be adjusted to fit different dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and simple! For this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, we’re using wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crispy 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)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer something healthier or to meet dietary needs.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your pesto for a little kick!

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

Start by mixing the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. This mixture will give our chicken that delightful crunch everyone loves! Dredging the chicken in this combo ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks well. This step is crucial because it creates that irresistible crispy texture once fried.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your coated chicken breasts. Fry them until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side. The sound of sizzling will let you know they’re cooking perfectly!

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This timing should align perfectly with finishing up your chicken!

Step 5: Combine with Pesto

Once both components are ready, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in your basil pesto while it’s still warm—it’ll coat each noodle beautifully! If you’re using lemon juice, add that now for brightness.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Slice your crispy Parmesan chicken into strips over a generous serving of pesto pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired. Now it’s time to gather around the table and enjoy this delicious meal together!

Pro Tips for Making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Creating a delicious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken can be easy and fun with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and homemade pesto make a world of difference in flavor. The vibrant taste will enhance the overall dish and provide a fresher experience.

• Pound chicken for even cooking: Lightly pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly. This way, you avoid dry edges while achieving that perfect crispy crust.

• Let the pasta cool slightly before mixing: Allowing your pasta to cool for a minute or two after draining helps the pesto adhere better. This way, every bite is bursting with flavor!

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture. A pinch of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the chicken’s flavor profile.

• Serve immediately for best results: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh! Serving it right away ensures that the chicken remains crispy and the pasta stays creamy.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Presentation can truly elevate your dining experience, making your dish not just delicious but visually appealing as well. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few sprigs of fresh basil not only add a pop of color but also enhance the herby flavors of the pesto.
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan over the top adds richness and creates a beautiful finish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows diners to brighten up their plates with a squeeze of citrus if desired.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment, offering a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle create a refreshing salad that complements the herbaceous notes in your pesto pasta.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crisp texture and bright color while providing nutrients that balance out this hearty meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and crunch to your dinner table without overpowering the main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate the chicken from the pasta if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken.

Can I make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.

How can I customize my Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

Feel free to add veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also switch out the seasoning or try different kinds of pesto!

What is the best way to store leftovers of Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions.

Can I use store-bought pesto for my Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

Yes, store-bought pesto works great! Just ensure it’s a good quality brand that you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken! It’s a recipe that brings together vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, making it special for any occasion. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this dish. Happy cooking!