Name: Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying; 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne); ½ cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional); Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinner routine with something vibrant, crave-worthy, and decidedly restaurant-quality, this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight really delivers. Imagine springy pasta twirled in a garlicky-sweet basil pesto, then crowned with golden, crunchy Parmesan-crusted chicken cutlets that are so juicy inside, they practically melt. Every bite is a celebration—the crisp, cheesy bite of chicken, the pop of basil, and the tangy note of lemon goodness (if you use it). This 14 brings fresh flavors, bold textures, and a showstopping presentation that’s as perfect for a family meal as it is for impressing your friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight rests in its simplicity: every component is chosen to truly shine here, each one vital for that unbeatable combination of crunch, creaminess, and tang. Let’s break down these game-changing ingredients and how they all work together for pasta and chicken perfection.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein of 14, tender and perfect for crisping up in a Parmesan crust.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a nutty, salty depth and forms the foundation of that irresistible crispy coating on the chicken.
Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): These add next-level crunch and airy lightness to the chicken’s exterior.
Garlic powder: Sneaks plenty of flavor right into every bite—essential for both chicken seasoning and vibrant overall taste.
Onion powder: Another touch that boosts savory notes and gives a subtle, sweet aroma.
Salt and pepper: These do the heavy lifting of balancing and enhancing every ingredient, so don’t be shy!
Olive oil, for frying: This helps get that golden, crispy crust on the chicken without overwhelming it.
Pasta (spaghetti or penne work beautifully): The sturdy vehicle for your pesto, ready to soak up all that flavor and provide satisfying bites.
Homemade or store-bought basil pesto: The lively, green heart of 14—herbaceous, garlicky, and irresistible atop warm pasta.
Fresh lemon juice (optional): A zingy finish that wakes up every bite—wonderful if you love a little extra brightness.
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional): Lovely pops of color and fragrance to make your 14 even more vibrant.
Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish: Who can resist a little extra sprinkle of cheesy goodness to finish things off?

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by getting those chicken breasts prepped for their crispy coating. Lay them flat and, if they’re on the thicker side, gently pound to an even thickness for better, more consistent frying. This helps guarantee each strip of your 14 Parmesan chicken is juicy throughout and perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then liberally season on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t skimp—this is your chicken’s chance to absorb all those foundational flavors that set 14 apart from ordinary chicken dishes.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs for that signature, shatteringly crispy crust. Press the seasoned chicken breasts into this mixture, patting so it sticks tightly on all sides. This is where the transformation to that legendary 14 chicken begins!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering but not smoking, add the coated chicken and let it sizzle away, 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for deep golden brown and crisp edges. Remove to a plate and let the chicken rest—this keeps the juices locked in so every bite is tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, get a big pot of water boiling with a generous sprinkle of salt (it should taste slightly like the sea!). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until just al dente—this retains a springy bite, which is perfect for tossing with pesto in your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight.

Step 6: Toss with Pesto

Drain the pasta, holding back a splash of that starchy cooking water. In a roomy bowl, toss the hot pasta with pesto, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time. This helps create a beautiful, glossy sauce that clings to every strand—a signature move in any Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight!

Step 7: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into even strips—each piece is now crusty, aromatic, and ready for its pasta perch. This is truly the moment of transformation for those familiar cutlets into the star of your 14 dish.

Step 8: Serve

Swirl pesto pasta onto plates or a big serving platter, then artistically arrange the sliced crispy chicken on top. Finish with fresh basil, a hit of lemon juice, and extra Parmesan, if you like. Every element comes together here—the green, the gold, the aroma, all in a showstopping 14 presentation.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Sprinkle more Parmesan over the hot chicken and pasta, add a tangle of fresh basil leaves, and squeeze a little lemon juice over the top. Each one brings a pop of color, freshness, and flavor to round out your 14 masterpiece.

Side Dishes

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a full meal on its own, but it pairs like a dream with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette, or a side of garlicky roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread for mopping up that pesto is never a bad choice either—think big, Italian-style platters for family-style joy.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve 14 piled high in a large platter for a dramatic centerpiece, or assemble individual bowls so everyone gets maximum chicken and pasta in each bite. For parties, slice the chicken ultra-thin and lay over little nests of pesto pasta as an appetizer. Kids love making their own plates, too—it’s interactive and extra fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your 14, store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the chicken from getting soggy and lets the pasta hold onto its delightful, saucy texture. Enjoy within 2-3 days for the freshest taste and crunch.

Freezing

While pesto pasta isn’t a prime candidate for freezing (the sauce can lose its vibrancy), that crispy Parmesan chicken freezes beautifully for up to one month. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and reheat straight from frozen for a quick 14-inspired meal later on.

Reheating

Warm leftover pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra pesto to reinvigorate the sauce. Reheat chicken pieces in the oven or air fryer until hot and crisp—a quick stint at 350°F works wonders and preserves the glorious crunch that makes 14 so special.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in 14?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay especially juicy and also work well with the Parmesan coating. The cook time may change slightly, so keep an eye until the outside is crisp and the inside hits 165°F for food safety in your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight.

What kind of pasta is best for 14?

Any shape that lets the pesto cling works beautifully! Spaghetti, linguine, or penne are all wonderful choices. If you want to try whole grain or gluten-free pasta, go for it—your 14 will turn out delicious and hearty.

Can I make the chicken for 14 in advance?

Yes! Fry the chicken and let it cool completely. Store it in the fridge, then reheat on a wire rack in the oven to recapture that crispy crust before serving atop your pesto pasta for a quick and easy 14 meal.

Is homemade or store-bought pesto better for 14?

Homemade pesto is unbeatable for freshness, but don’t hesitate to use your favorite high-quality store brand in 14. If you buy, look for ones kept refrigerated with a high basil content for that authentic herb flavor.

How do I make 14 vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and go for crispy baked tofu or roasted breaded eggplant cutlets instead. The Parmesan coating and pesto still give you all the flavor you crave from your 14—just as hearty and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a dish to wow your guests, 14 is guaranteed to bring big flavor, gorgeous color, and plenty of smiles. Give it a try and discover why this simple combo of pesto pasta and crispy Parmesan chicken is destined to become a favorite in your own kitchen!

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Delight

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this delicious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe that combines tender, flavorful chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust with a vibrant basil pesto pasta. A perfect harmony of flavors in every bite!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
Dredge the Chicken:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks evenly.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Toss with Pesto:
In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.
Assemble the Dish:
Slice the crispy Parmesan chicken into thin strips. Plate the pesto pasta and top it with the sliced crispy chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Italian