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Pesto pasta served with crispy Parmesan chicken on a white plate

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

A comforting dish that combines creamy pesto pasta and crispy Parmesan chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne) Use your favorite pasta shape.
  • 1 cup basil pesto Fresh pesto is recommended.
  • 1 lb chicken breasts Alternatively, chicken thighs can be used.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For coating the chicken.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs For dredging the chicken.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
  • to taste Olive oil For frying the chicken.
  • optional Fresh basil For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast first in the breadcrumbs and then in Parmesan cheese.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
  3. Toss the cooked pasta with basil pesto until well coated.
Serving
  1. Serve the pesto pasta topped with crispy Parmesan chicken and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; keep chicken separate to maintain crispiness. Freezes well for about a month. Reheat in an oven or skillet.