Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken*! It’s a flavor explosion that brings together the freshness of basil pesto and the satisfying crunch of perfectly baked chicken, all in one delightful dish. Seriously, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner! This recipe is a family favorite and perfect for gatherings, making it a go-to choice when I’m entertaining friends or just want a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, the combination of creamy pesto and crispy chicken will have everyone coming back for seconds—it’s that good! Plus, you can have it on the table in about 45 minutes, so it’s ideal for those busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (I love using penne or spaghetti for this dish!)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (homemade if you can swing it, but store-bought works too)
- 2 medium chicken breasts (make sure they’re nice and plump for juicy results)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (the more, the merrier, I say!)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (these give the chicken that perfect crunch)
- 2 large eggs (to help the breadcrumbs stick like a dream)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, it enhances all those flavors)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the best for that little kick)
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add in your 8 oz of uncooked pasta. Stir it around a bit to keep it from sticking, and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it al dente, so check a minute or two before the time is up! Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside, but don’t rinse—it needs to hold onto that delicious starchy flavor!
Preparing the Crispy Parmesan Chicken
Now, let’s give some love to those chicken breasts! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the time comes. While that’s warming up, grab a bowl and beat the 2 large eggs, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Next, coat them in a mixture of 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese—this is where the magic happens! Make sure they’re fully covered for that perfect crispy texture, then place the coated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly, trust me!
Combining the Ingredients
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to bring it all together! In a large bowl, toss the drained pasta with 1 cup of fresh basil pesto until it’s beautifully coated. Plate the pesto pasta and top it off with slices of the crispy parmesan chicken. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds—serve it up hot and enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken* is not just delicious, but it also packs a solid nutritional punch. Typically, one serving contains about 600 calories, with 28g of fat, 35g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Of course, these values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for fueling your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Ideal for family dinners or gatherings; it’s always a hit!
- Gluten-free option available if you use the right pasta!
This recipe truly combines convenience and deliciousness, making it a fantastic go-to for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Okay, here are my top tips to ensure your *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken* turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t skimp on the salt when boiling your pasta; it really brings out the flavor! For the chicken, make sure the breadcrumbs and parmesan are well mixed to achieve an even coating. Keep an eye on the chicken in the oven—every oven is different, and you want that golden brown color without overcooking it. Lastly, if you’re using homemade pesto, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Trust me, a pinch of extra salt or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the dish even more!
Variations
There are so many fun ways to mix things up with this *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken*! For a veggie boost, try tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach into the pasta—both add a lovely burst of color and flavor. You can also switch up the pasta type; whole wheat or gluten-free options work great too! If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the chicken for shrimp or even some crispy tofu for a plant-based twist. The possibilities are endless, and they’re all delicious!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more delightful, I highly recommend serving your *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken* alongside a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette adds a nice peppery contrast. If you’re craving something warm, garlic bread is an absolute must! The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce. Trust me, these sides will elevate your dinner experience to a whole new level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers of this delicious *pesto pasta with crispy parmesan chicken*, don’t worry! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but I recommend adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy that yummy goodness again!
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Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken: 45-Minute Wonder
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious pesto pasta dish topped with crispy parmesan chicken.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Drain the pasta and toss with the basil pesto.
- Slice the chicken and serve on top of the pesto pasta.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning per your taste.
- Use homemade pesto for extra flavor.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: pesto pasta, crispy chicken, parmesan chicken