Description
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of herbaceous pesto and the satisfying crunch of golden, Parmesan-coated chicken. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring you can serve a comforting, vibrant meal in just 30 minutes. The tender pasta pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken, making it an instant favorite for family dinners or entertaining guests. Prepare this dish and enjoy a flavorful experience that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken cooks, boil salted water in a pot and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Toss the drained pasta with basil pesto in a large bowl or pot. Add lemon juice if desired.
- Serve sliced crispy chicken over the pesto pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg