Description
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta recipe combines perfectly seasoned, pan-fried and oven-baked chicken breasts with a luscious creamy Parmesan pasta. The chicken is coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture for a crispy exterior, while the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce brings the pasta to life, creating a comforting and satisfying meal ideal for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crispy Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crispy Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Prepare three shallow bowls for a dredging station: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, ensuring an even coat. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on all sides.
- Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown, crispy crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the pan-fried chicken breasts onto a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken bakes, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and let it simmer until it reduces by half, which concentrates the flavor.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
- Serve: Slice the crispy chicken breasts into strips. Plate the creamy pasta and arrange the sliced chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when pan-frying chicken to maintain heat and crispiness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- To add a bit of spice, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mix or the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American