Name: Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic; 3/4 cup pesto; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 1/2 to 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, more to taste; 2 tablespoons cream cheese; Red pepper flakes, to taste; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 16 ounces pasta, shape of choice; 2 chicken breasts, halved; Oil for shallow frying; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon grated parmesan; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated parmesan; 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, herbaceous sauce paired with golden, crunchy chicken that will have you craving seconds before you even finish your first bite. This dish showcases fresh, vibrant pesto mixed into a luscious cream sauce, coating tender pasta while crispy parmesan-coated chicken breasts add irresistible texture and flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress, this recipe truly brings happiness to the table with every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view inside a blender or food processor bowl filled with bright green sauce or paste with a slightly coarse texture. The mixture is spread evenly around the sides and center, with small bits visible throughout. The blade in the center is white with a smooth surface and some light marks. The background is white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing a vital role – from the vibrant pesto that packs a punch of herbaceous goodness to the crunchy parmesan coating giving the chicken its unforgettable crispiness.

Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, silky base to the creamy pesto sauce.
Garlic: Finely minced to infuse the sauce with delectable aroma and depth.
Pesto: The star green sauce bringing fresh basil, pine nut, and cheese flavor to the pasta.
Heavy cream: Creates the lush, velvety texture that makes the sauce truly indulgent.
Parmesan cheese: Integral both in the sauce and the chicken coating to deliver nutty, savory notes.
Cream cheese: Boosts the sauce’s creaminess and smoothness beautifully.
Red pepper flakes: Just a hint to add a subtle kick and balance richness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together perfectly.
Pasta of choice: Pick your favorite shape to soak up that divine creamy pesto sauce.
Chicken breasts: Halved to create perfect portions for a crispy, parmesan-coated finish.
Vegetable oil: For shallow frying the chicken to golden, crunchy perfection.
Egg: Forms the wet batter to help the crisp coating stick beautifully.
Italian seasoning, oregano, dried parsley: Herbs to enhance both the wet and dry batters with Italian flair.
Breadcrumbs and Panko breadcrumbs: Combine for the ultimate crunch and texture in the coating.

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

Begin by whisking together the wet batter ingredients: egg, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful egg mixture helps the coating stick while infusing the chicken with added taste. Next, in a separate bowl, combine the dry batter with breadcrumbs, panko, parmesan, and dried herbs. Dip each chicken piece first into the wet batter, letting the excess drip off, then thoroughly coat it in the dry mixture on the other hand. Rest the coated chicken on a plate for 10 minutes to set the crust—this waiting step is key for that satisfying crunch.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat a shallow layer of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully fry each chicken piece until it turns a beautiful golden brown and cooks through inside, which usually takes several minutes per side. Do this in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring every piece crisps evenly. Transfer cooked chicken to a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip off, keeping that crust crisp and not soggy.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

While the chicken cooks, start the sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté finely minced garlic until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Stir in pesto and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer so all the flavors meld. Add cream cheese and a generous amount of freshly grated parmesan, stirring until completely smooth and creamy. Finish by seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Step 4: Cook and Combine Pasta

Boil your chosen pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it in the luscious creamy pesto sauce, coating every piece. Slice the crispy parmesan chicken and arrange it on top or mix it gently throughout. Serve right away while warm, allowing the contrasting textures and flavors to shine.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with green pesto pasta made of spiral noodles with a textured sauce showing bits of herbs. On top, there are five warm golden-brown sliced pieces of crispy chicken arranged in a row slightly angled on the left side. There are a couple of fresh basil leaves placed near the pasta, adding a fresh green color. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or extra grated parmesan cheese on top brightens this dish with a fresh finish. If you enjoy a little crunch and color, toasted pine nuts or some chopped sun-dried tomatoes also complement the creamy pesto and crispy chicken gorgeously.

Side Dishes

Pair this satisfying meal with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or crunchy garlic bread to mop up every last bit of creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes add color, nutrients, and a fresh, slightly crisp contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, try layering the pasta and sliced chicken in individual clear cups for a fun plated look. Alternatively, serve the pasta in a large bowl piled high with chicken arranged artistically on top to impress your guests with rustic charm and abundant flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken separate if possible to preserve its crispiness and combine just before serving.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce freezes okay, the chicken coating can soften after thawing, so it’s best to freeze only the pasta and sauce mixture if needed. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low-medium heat to revive the creaminess and add a touch of olive oil to crisp up the chicken again. Microwaving is convenient but may soften the crispy coating, so keep the chicken separate and reheat it in a hot pan if possible.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully and keeps things quick and easy. Just choose a high-quality brand for the best fresh basil flavor and adjust seasoning to taste in the sauce.

What pasta shape works best?

Any pasta will do, but shapes with grooves or nooks like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the creamy pesto sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

How do I make sure the chicken stays crispy after frying?

Rest the coated chicken before frying and fry in batches without overcrowding the pan. Draining on a wire rack instead of paper towels prevents sogginess by allowing excess oil to drip away.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed nuts for a crunchy coating that still tastes amazing.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Prepare the components in advance and assemble before serving, reheating pasta and sauce together and crisping up the chicken separately for best texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting combination of creamy pesto pasta paired with perfectly crispy parmesan chicken to brighten your dinner table. This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe is not only straightforward to make but also endlessly satisfying, guaranteeing smiles all around your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become one of your absolute favorites to share with family and friends!

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