Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The combination of vibrant basil pesto with the satisfying crunch of crispy chicken creates a comforting yet exciting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. Trust me; this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Kid-approved: With its cheesy, crispy chicken and flavorful pasta, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with different veggies or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand.
• Meal prep friendly: Make extra chicken or pesto to enjoy later in the week—this dish holds up beautifully in the fridge!
• Deliciously satisfying: The rich flavors of pesto paired with perfectly cooked chicken create a meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses everyday items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to whip up this delightful meal:

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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even a plant-based alternative if you want a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: Use any type of pasta you love—fussili, farfalle, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully!
• Experiment with sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, switch out basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

Start by preparing your crispy coating. In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken that irresistible crunch while adding tons of flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, take your boneless chicken breasts and dip them into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this is what creates that deliciously crispy layer when cooked. Letting them sit for a minute helps the coating stick better during frying.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place your coated chicken breasts in the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This step is crucial—achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy makes all the difference!

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While your chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. You’ll want it al dente so it can soak up all that tasty pesto later.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once both the chicken and pasta are ready, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in your basil pesto along with lemon juice if using. This adds brightness to your dish!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Slice your crispy Parmesan chicken into strips and serve it over a bed of pesto pasta. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired—it makes everything look beautiful and appetizing!

And there you have it—your very own Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken! Enjoy every bite as this delightful dish brings smiles around your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Cooking can be a joyful adventure, and with these pro tips, your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken will shine even brighter!

• Use fresh ingredients: The vibrant flavors of fresh basil and quality Parmesan cheese can elevate your dish, making it more aromatic and delicious. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall taste and bring a burst of flavor to every bite.

• Pound the chicken for even cooking: By lightly pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, you ensure they cook uniformly, resulting in juicy, tender meat. This small step helps prevent overcooking some parts while leaving others undercooked.

• Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs gives your chicken an extra crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs often lack. This crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creamy pesto pasta.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid can be added to your pesto to achieve the perfect sauce consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to your pasta.

• Experiment with pesto variations: Feel free to mix up your pesto! Adding nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds can provide a unique twist while maintaining that classic herby flavor. You can also try different greens like arugula or spinach for a new taste experience.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Presenting your dish is just as important as preparing it! A well-served meal not only looks appealing but also enhances the overall dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves add a pop of color and freshness that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese right before serving will melt slightly into the warm pasta, enriching each bite with cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce on your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta and chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of your dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: This bright green side adds a nutritious touch and pairs well with both the pesto and crispy chicken without overwhelming their flavors.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken! It’s all about sharing good food and great moments around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is not only a delight to eat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta and chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the pasta and chicken separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down to room temperature.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and contents — it’s easy to forget what’s inside!
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• To reheat, place pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil, stirring until heated through.
• Reheat chicken separately either in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a microwave until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While homemade pesto is fantastic, store-bought versions can save time without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to choose a good-quality brand that you enjoy.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy in Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

For an extra crispy texture, ensure you coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with both Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Fry them on medium-high heat so they get that lovely golden crunch. Additionally, consider double-coating by dipping them again in egg wash before coating for even more crunch!

Can I substitute ingredients in Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken?

Definitely! You can swap the chicken for turkey cutlets or even use tofu for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free variant, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and textures that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your creations—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!