Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe

Introduction

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful combination of tender pasta, flavorful pesto, and crunchy, cheesy chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Prepare the chicken by slicing each breast into thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Step 3: In a shallow bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Step 4: Dip each chicken cutlet first into the egg, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
5. Step 5: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until well coated.
7. Step 7: Serve the pesto pasta topped with the crispy Parmesan chicken.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, or substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice on the chicken just before serving to brighten the dish.
• For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.

Storage

Store leftover pesto pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Reheat the chicken in a warm oven to maintain crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works well in this recipe. Choose one with fresh basil and good-quality ingredients for the best taste.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold pesto nicely, but you can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand.

Cucumber Edamame Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 131 reviews

A delightful Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, combining al dente pasta tossed in fresh basil pesto and topped with golden, crispy chicken coated in Parmesan cheese. This dish offers a perfect balance of herbaceous flavors and satisfying textures, ideal for a comforting yet elegant meal.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Pesto

• 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Bread the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat evenly with Parmesan cheese.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes.
4. Toss pasta with pesto: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, tossing well to coat every piece evenly.
5. Serve: Slice the crispy Parmesan chicken and arrange on top of the pesto pasta. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• You can use any type of pasta you like, though penne or fusilli hold pesto well.
• For a lighter option, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
• Homemade pesto enhances flavor, but store-bought is a convenient alternative.
• Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Keywords: Pesto Pasta, Parmesan Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Italian Dinner, Basil Pesto, Easy Pasta Recipe