Description
This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal. Tender pasta is tossed with fresh basil pesto and topped with golden, crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
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
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with pesto and lemon juice (if using).
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Slice the chicken and serve over the pesto pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes instead of frying.
- Pasta can be prepared ahead of time and tossed with pesto just before serving.
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian