Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will elevate your dinner table. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, served atop a bed of al dente pasta tossed in vibrant basil pesto. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this dish combines rich Italian flavors with the satisfying crunch of golden chicken. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this indulgent yet wholesome meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture and fry in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water in a pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Toss the drained pasta with basil pesto in a large bowl.
- Serve the pesto pasta topped with crispy chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 73g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 140mg