This recipe combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, creamy pasta for a meal that feels fancy but is easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Pasta:
- 1 lb pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip each breast into the beaten egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
- Pan-Sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes to ensure it’s cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, sauté minced garlic over medium heat for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
4️⃣ Assemble the Dish:
- Combine Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Chicken: Slice the crispy chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy your restaurant-quality meal at home!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Chicken Tips: For extra flavor, mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken.
- Sauce Texture: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Pasta Options: Swap out penne or fettuccine with rigatoni, tagliatelle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~680
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~35g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is comfort food at its finest. The crispy, golden chicken pairs perfectly with the rich and velvety sauce, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your dinner guests!