Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, a perfect blend of comfort and taste that will quickly become a family favorite! This dish features tender chicken coated in a crunchy Parmesan crust, beautifully served over pasta tossed in vibrant basil pesto. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this meal shines in any setting. With its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can easily impress your loved ones with homemade goodness without the hassle. Enjoy the combination of crispy chicken and fresh pesto that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat each breast with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
- In a pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Stir in basil pesto and lemon juice (if using) into the drained pasta until well coated.
- Slice crispy chicken and place on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg