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Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, golden-brown chicken is paired with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. A quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions!


Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 34 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Pasta:

  • 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.

2. Cook the Chicken:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F or 74°C internal temperature).
  3. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

3. Cook the Pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

5. Combine and Serve:

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat.
  2. Serve topped with the crispy chicken breasts.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Lighten it Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • Side Suggestions: Pair with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
  • Method: Sautéing, Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American