Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that your family will love. It brings a touch of warmth and comfort to any dinner table. The creamy pesto pairs beautifully with golden, crispy chicken. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You Will Love This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

This recipe is great for families. It’s simple to make and uses everyday ingredients. The flavors are rich and satisfying, which makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s also quick, so you can have dinner on the table in no time. Perfect for those busy evenings when everyone is hungry!

How to Make Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Making this dish is straightforward. You’ll prepare the chicken and pasta separately. Then, combine everything for a cozy meal. Follow the steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy.

What You Need

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

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge the chicken in the mixture, coating it well. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken until it’s golden and crispy.

Prepare the Pasta:

While the chicken is cooking, boil water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta but save some cooking water.

Assemble the Dish:

In the same pot, toss the drained pasta with the basil pesto. If you like, add a splash of pasta water for creaminess. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over it if desired, and garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

This dish is perfect for a family dinner. Serve it with a side salad for some crunch. Garlic bread would also pair nicely. For extra flavor, sprinkle more Parmesan on top. It’s great for warm evenings or cozy family gatherings.

How to Store Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for up to 3 days. You can reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to freeze it, place portions in a freezer-safe container. Just remember that the chicken might lose its crispiness when reheated.

Recipe Tips

Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy inside.
Pasta can be slightly undercooked for a better texture when mixed with sauce.
Use homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto for the best flavor.
Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a different twist.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the pesto before breading.

Variations & Swaps

For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables.
Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier choice.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.
Try a dairy-free pesto for a vegan version.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat them up and combine them with the pesto.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze portions of this meal. Just make sure they are in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for about 2-3 months.

How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a little water or extra pesto to keep it moist.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can easily switch to tofu, shrimp, or even a hearty vegetable mix like zucchini and bell peppers for a different protein or a vegetarian option.

What if I run out of pesto?
You can make a quick sauce using olive oil, garlic, and grated cheese mixed together. This will add a nice flavor even without pesto.