Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Introduction

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken brings together bright basil pesto and golden, crunchy chicken for a cozy yet restaurant worthy meal. It’s quick to pull together on a busy evening, and the Parmesan crust gives the chicken an irresistible snap that pairs perfectly with tender pasta. If you love creamy pasta variations, try our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for another cozy dinner idea. Simple ingredients and a short cook time make this one to return to again and again.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe balances comfort and freshness in a way that works for families and dinner guests alike. The pesto brings herby, slightly nutty flavor while the Parmesan breading adds deep savory notes and a satisfying crisp. It feels elevated without any complicated techniques, so you get a plated result that looks like you spent more time than you did. Swap the pasta shape freely and the dish adapts to pantry staples, and for a lighter spin explore our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Parmesan Pasta for a different texture profile. Visually the bright green pesto against golden chicken and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan makes for a very shareable photo.

Flavor and Texture

The contrast is the star here: crunchy, cheesy coating meets soft, al dente pasta coated in silky pesto. Parmesan in the crust melts slightly while frying, creating pockets of concentrated umami. The pesto keeps every bite bright and herb forward so the dish never feels heavy. A splash of lemon juice brightens the pesto and cuts through richness if you choose to add it. Fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan make a finishing flourish that adds aroma and visual appeal.

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

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound chicken to even thickness, season with salt and pepper, dredge in a mixture of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder, and press coating to adhere.
2. Prepare the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, reserve a small cup of pasta water, then drain and toss with pesto and lemon juice if using.
3. Assemble the Dish: Heat olive oil in a skillet, fry chicken until golden and cooked through, slice chicken and serve atop pesto coated pasta, garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Tips for Best Results

For the crispiest crust use panko breadcrumbs and press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken before frying. Make sure the oil is hot enough so the coating browns quickly without absorbing excess oil; a moderate sizzling sound is a good sign. If your pesto seems thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to coat noodles smoothly. Slice the cooked chicken against the grain for tender bites and arrange pieces across the pasta to show off the golden crust in photos. Use good quality Parmesan for both the coating and the garnish for the most flavorful result.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to revive the pesto and keep the chicken from drying out. You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead and refrigerate it raw for up to a day, then fry just before serving for the best texture. Pesto can be mixed into the pasta just before serving to preserve the fresh green color.

Final Thought

This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken feels special but is easy enough for regular weeknight dinners. The combination of textures and bright herbal flavor makes it a reliable crowd pleaser and a great recipe to photograph for social sharing. With a few pantry staples you can have a restaurant style plate on the table in under an hour.

Conclusion

For a full reference and variations on this idea, see the original recipe at Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken | Moribyan.

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