Description
Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that elevates any dinner table. This dish features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, herbaceous pesto sauce, topped with golden, crispy chicken breasts coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers both comfort and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with basil pesto while warm.
- Plate the pesto pasta, slice the crispy chicken on top, and garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor in your pesto. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in airtight containers; they keep well for up to three days.