Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
If you’re in search of a dish that combines comfort with vibrant flavors, look no further than Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken. This family favorite balances the creamy, herbaceous notes of fresh basil pesto with the satisfying crunch of golden-brown chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or welcoming guests, this recipe is quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes. Your loved ones will be coming back for seconds!
- 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 (spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken dry and coat each breast in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and return it to the pot; mix in basil pesto.
- Slice crispy chicken and serve over pesto pasta; garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg