Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Indulge in this delicious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe that combines tender pasta coated in a creamy pesto sauce with crispy, flavorful parmesan-crusted chicken. A perfect meal for any occasion!
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Simmering, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
CREAMY PESTO SAUCE
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup pesto
- 1 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup parmesan, more to taste
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
OTHER
- 16 ounces pasta, shape of choice
- 2 chicken breasts, halved
- Oil for frying
-
WET BATTER
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
DRY BATTER
- 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- CRISPY CHICKEN – Prepare the wet batter by whisking together the egg, Italian seasoning, grated parmesan, black pepper, and salt. Coat the chicken in the wet batter and then in the dry breadcrumb mixture. Fry until golden and cooked through.
- MAKE THE CREAMY PESTO SAUCE – Saute butter and garlic, then add pesto, heavy cream, cream cheese, and parmesan. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- THE PASTA – Boil pasta, toss in the creamy pesto sauce, and top with chopped crispy chicken. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the level of spiciness in the sauce by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to add some fresh basil leaves or extra parmesan as garnish for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Pesto Pasta, Crispy Parmesan Chicken, Italian Pasta Recipe