Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the vivid aroma of fresh basil wafted through the air, transporting me straight to the sun-kissed hills of Italy. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, a dish that makes daily cooking feel like a joyous celebration. This vibrant meal not only showcases the lively flavors of homemade pesto but also combines creamy pasta with perfectly crunchy chicken, becoming an instant family favorite. With its quick prep time and the flexibility to substitute proteins or customize the pesto to your liking, it’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Curious about how this delightful dish can elevate your next dinner? Let’s dive in! Why is this pesto pasta irresistible? Simplicity at its core: This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for any home cook looking to whip up something special without the fuss. Flavor explosion: The blend of fresh basil and crunchy Parmesan chicken creates a delightful taste that will keep everyone coming back for more. Versatile options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or plant-based proteins, this dish adapts beautifully to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests with this stunning meal that looks as great as it tastes! Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a delightful spread. Make-ahead magic: Prepare the pesto and chicken in advance to make weeknight dinners a breeze. Enjoy the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Chicken for a quick and flavorful alternative on busy nights! Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Ingredients For the Pasta • Pasta (12 oz) – Serves as the main body of the dish, providing structure; substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. • Pesto (1 cup) – Adds fresh, herby flavor; can be homemade or store-bought; adjust garlic and herbs for a bolder taste. For the Crispy Chicken • Chicken Breast (2 pieces) – Primary protein source coated in Parmesan for crunch; can substitute with chicken thighs for juiciness or shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. • Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Provides the crispy coating and enhances flavor; for a dairy-free alternative, use nutritional yeast. • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used for frying the chicken to add flavor and promote that perfect golden-brown crust. • Garlic (1 teaspoon, minced) – Offers aromatic depth to the dish; can reduce or omit for a milder pesto experience. Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone craving more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 12 oz of pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a tablespoon of the pasta water, and immediately toss it with 1 cup of pesto to ensure the noodles are evenly coated and glossy. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken While the pasta is cooking, take 2 chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Then, set up a dredging station by mixing ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt in a shallow bowl, ready to coat the chicken. Step 3: Cook Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, creating a satisfying crunch. Step 4: Combine & Serve Once all components are ready, toss the cooked pasta with the remaining pesto, using the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Slice the crispy Parmesan chicken into strips and place it on top of the pesto pasta. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired, for a beautifully presented Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken that will delight your family and friends. Make Ahead Options These Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the pesto and crispy chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The cooked pasta can be made a day ahead as well; just toss it lightly with a teaspoon of olive oil before refrigerating to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or a skillet to regain its crispness while warming the pasta and pesto gently; you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh and inviting! Expert Tips for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken is pounded to a uniform thickness for consistent cooking, avoiding dry or undercooked spots. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary; crowding the pan can trap steam and prevent that glorious crispiness we all crave. Rest Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying; this helps retain moisture, resulting in a juicier chicken when served atop your pesto pasta. Adjust Pesto: Feel free to customize your pesto with different nuts or herbs to suit your taste—this will enhance the flavor profile of your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken. Starch for Stickiness: If your pesto is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it; this ensures the sauce clings beautifully to your pasta. Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Variations Feel free to tailor this delightful dish to your taste and dietary needs while enjoying the comforting flavors! Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick seafood twist that pairs beautifully with pesto. Tofu Alternative: Try crispy tofu for a plant-based protein; it soaks up the pesto’s vibrant flavors wonderfully. Vegetable Boost: Add seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach for nutrition and a pop of color. They bring freshness to the dish! Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free option, swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast; it provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Garlic Variations: Experiment with roasted garlic in your pesto for a mellow, sweet flavor that enhances the entire dish. Heat It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes into your pesto for a spicy kick that elevates the dish to new heights. Pasta Choice: Switch out traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for different textures and nutritional benefits. Herb Swap: Use different herbs like arugula or sunflower seeds in your pesto for a unique flavor profile; it’s fun to explore! Explore the delicious variations! If you’re short on time, check out our Pesto Caprese Pasta for something equally delightful! Storage Tips for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture in both the pasta and chicken, so you can enjoy them later. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat until warmed through. This keeps the chicken crispy while warming the pasta. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pesto and crispy chicken in advance, storing them separately, for quick assembly during busy weeknights. What to Serve with Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Elevate your dinner experience with delightful side dishes that enhance the vibrant flavors of this comforting classic. Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness provides a perfect crunch and garlic aroma that complements the meal. Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette introduce a light, zesty contrast to the rich pasta. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add earthy sweetness and vibrant color to the plate. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil create a refreshing pairing that highlights the pesto’s flavors. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and rich, these potatoes provide a comforting balance to the crispy chicken while mopping up extra pesto. Lemonade or Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink with a hint of citrus cleanses the palate, enhancing the dining experience. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, the rich and velvety mousse rounds off the meal with an indulgent touch, leaving everyone satisfied. Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa infused with herbs offers a nutritious option that adds fiber and a delightful bite alongside the pasta. Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ingredients for my pesto? Absolutely! When choosing your basil for pesto, look for vibrant greens with no dark spots. Young leaves are ideal for a sweeter flavor, while mature leaves pack a punch. Opt for fresh garlic that’s firm and plump; avoid any with green shoots, as they can be bitter. Lastly, select high-quality Parmesan cheese—grate it fresh for the best flavor. How should I store leftovers of pesto pasta with crispy Parmesan chicken? To keep your meal fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the moisture in both the pasta and chicken. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Can I freeze pesto pasta with crispy Parmesan chicken? Yes, you can! For longer preservation, freeze single portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Before freezing, ensure the pasta and chicken are completely cooled to prevent ice crystals. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil, which helps retain the chicken’s crispiness. What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying? Very! If your chicken doesn’t turn out crispy, it may be due to overcrowding the skillet during frying. Make sure to fry in batches so that each piece has enough space. Also, check that your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; you can test it by dropping a small piece of bread in—if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go! Are there any dietary considerations for making this dish? Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, this recipe is highly customizable. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties. If dairy is a concern, nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, replace chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh to make it vegan! Can I prepare the pesto in advance? Absolutely! Prepare your pesto up to a week ahead; just store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. This makes it not only flavorful but also convenient when you decide to whip up your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken on a busy weeknight. Delicious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tonight Enjoy this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken, a delightful dish that combines creamy pasta with crunchy chicken for a perfect dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.1 cup Pesto Can be homemade or store-bought, adjust garlic and herbs for a bolder taste.For the Crispy Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breast Can substitute with chicken thighs or shrimp.½ cup Parmesan Cheese Provides the crispy coating; for a dairy-free alternative, use nutritional yeast.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for frying the chicken.1 teaspoon Garlic Can reduce or omit for a milder taste. Equipment Large potLarge skilletMeat Malletshallow bowlplastic wrap Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and toss with 1 cup of pesto.Pound the 2 chicken breasts between plastic wrap to an even thickness. Set up a dredging station with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and salt.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and fry for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown.Toss the cooked pasta with remaining pesto. Slice chicken and place on top of pasta. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesPound chicken evenly for consistent cooking and allow to rest after frying for juiciness. Adjust pesto to taste and add reserved pasta water if needed for sauce consistency. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
