Name: Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; 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 (optional); Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

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Introduction

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken coated in a crispy, cheesy crust paired with flavorful basil pesto pasta. This dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Its balance of textures and fresh flavors makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with pasta spirals coated in green pesto sauce, giving a textured, slightly glossy appearance. On top, there are six slices of grilled chicken breast, each slice showing golden-brown grill marks with a slightly charred texture and juicy interior. Bright green basil leaves are scattered around the chicken, adding fresh color contrast. The overall image shows a clean and fresh meal with layered textures of smooth pesto pasta, firm grilled chicken, and crisp basil leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
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

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken breast in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.
Step 5: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the basil pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 6: Slice the rested chicken into thin strips.
Step 7: Plate the pesto pasta and top with sliced crispy chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Try substituting chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or seasoning mix.

Storage

Store leftover pesto pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. To prevent the chicken crust from becoming soggy, reheat it separately if possible and add to the pasta just before serving.

How to Serve

A white bowl contains three thick slices of golden-brown grilled chicken breast placed on top of green pesto fusilli pasta. The pasta fills the bowl, showing its spiral shape and a smooth, herb-green texture. There are a few fresh green basil leaves visible around the chicken, adding a touch of freshness. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

While pre-cooked chicken can be used, the crispy Parmesan coating works best when freshly cooked in the skillet. Using pre-cooked chicken may not achieve the same crispy texture.

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

Homemade pesto tends to have a fresher, more vibrant flavor, but good quality store-bought pesto works well and saves time. Choose whichever suits your schedule and taste preferences.