Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken dish! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining the crunchiness of golden parmesan-crusted chicken with the vibrant, herby goodness of pesto pasta. I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner with friends; the aroma filled my kitchen, and there was just something magical about watching everyone dig in with smiles on their faces. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up too! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation. The flavors are just to die for!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated is best for that crispy, cheesy crust.
- 2 cups pesto sauce: Use homemade or store-bought—just make sure it’s fresh for maximum flavor!
- 8 oz pasta of choice: I love using penne or spaghetti, but feel free to choose your favorite!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors.
Make sure to check your pantry before heading to the store! Having these ingredients on hand will have you ready to create a fantastic meal in no time.
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that chicken nice and crispy!
- Cook the pasta: While the oven is heating up, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt your water for flavor! It usually takes about 8-10 minutes, so keep an eye on it.
- Season the chicken: Grab those chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is key to making sure your chicken is flavorful!
- Coat in parmesan: Now, take your grated parmesan cheese and coat each chicken breast thoroughly. I like to press the cheese on so it sticks well—this will give you that gorgeous golden crust.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan, but not so hot that it burns!
- Cook the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color. If it’s browning too quickly, lower the heat a bit. Don’t rush this part!
- Bake the chicken: Once both sides are golden, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). That’s when you know it’s perfect!
- Mix in the pesto: While the chicken is baking, drain the cooked pasta and toss it with the pesto sauce in a large bowl. Make sure every noodle gets coated in that vibrant green goodness!
- Slice and serve: Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a minute before slicing it into strips. Serve it right over the pesto pasta, and trust me, this dish is going to be a showstopper!
And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with a gorgeous plate of pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken that’s sure to wow anyone at your dinner table. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The crispy parmesan chicken paired with the herby richness of pesto pasta creates a mouthwatering combination that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The crispy chicken and flavorful pasta are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table!
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the pasta or add veggies to the mix, making this dish versatile for any dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Option: Just choose your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set to enjoy this delicious meal without worry!
- Impressive Presentation: With vibrant green pesto and golden chicken, this dish looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests!
Trust me, once you experience the joy of this pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken, it’ll quickly become a cherished recipe in your home. It’s all about bringing comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table!
Tips for Success
To make sure your pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips for you! Follow these, and you’ll be a kitchen superstar in no time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, high-quality parmesan, and homemade or fresh pesto will elevate your dish. It really makes a difference in flavor!
- Don’t Rush the Chicken: When you’re frying the chicken, let it get that nice golden crust without flipping it too soon. Patience pays off in crispy perfection!
- Experiment with Pasta: While I love penne or spaghetti, feel free to try other types like fettuccine or even whole wheat. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they can vary!
- Adjust the Pesto: If you want a creamier texture, mix in a bit of cream or sour cream with the pesto. It adds a lovely richness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Try Different Proteins: Don’t feel limited to chicken! Substitute with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Seasoning is Key: Feel free to add garlic powder, Italian herbs, or red pepper flakes to the chicken for an extra flavor boost. Get creative!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish. Enjoy every moment of the cooking journey, and don’t forget to have fun! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken! Knowing what’s in your meal can help you enjoy it even more, right? Here are the estimated values per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 40g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Regardless, with hearty protein and flavorful fats, this dish packs a punch in both taste and nutrition! Enjoy every delicious bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them beforehand for even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can also cook them from frozen, but adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
What if I don’t have pesto on hand?
No worries! You can whip up a quick homemade version with basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts. Alternatively, you can use other sauces like alfredo or even a simple garlic and olive oil mix if you’re in a hurry.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance, then just combine them with the pesto sauce when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great option for meal prep, and the flavors will meld beautifully!
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, just select your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free meal that everyone can enjoy! The crispy parmesan chicken pairs perfectly with any gluten-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven or microwave until heated through. Just be careful not to overheat the chicken to keep it juicy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store and reheat your pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken so you can enjoy those scrumptious leftovers! Trust me, this dish is just as delightful the next day.
First off, once your meal has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’s important to store the chicken and pasta together to keep everything flavorful and moist. If you have extra pesto, you can drizzle a little on top to maintain that vibrant flavor!
Now, when it comes to refrigeration, you can keep your leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you know when you made it. If you find yourself with more leftovers than you can eat, feel free to freeze the chicken and pasta in separate containers for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, reheating is key! For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken and pasta on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until everything is warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be sure to do it in short bursts to avoid overheating the chicken—nobody wants dry chicken, right?
And there you have it! These storage and reheating tips will help you savor every bite of your pesto pasta crispy parmesan chicken long after the initial feast. Enjoy your meal, and happy eating!
Print
Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan Chicken: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy parmesan chicken served over pesto pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups pesto sauce
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Coat chicken in parmesan cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Mix cooked pasta with pesto sauce.
- Slice the chicken and serve over the pesto pasta.
Notes
- Use fresh pesto for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: pesto pasta, crispy parmesan chicken, Italian dish
