Looking to impress your family or friends with a hearty, flavorful dinner? This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta recipe is a surefire winner. With its golden-brown chicken, luscious Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish combines irresistible textures and bold flavors for a meal that’s unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a showstopper because:
- Crispy and Creamy Balance: The crunch of the breaded chicken contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore.
Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Extra Parmesan for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Bread the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry each chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
4. Cook the Pasta
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente (per package instructions).
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce.
- Add splashes of reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta, topping each serving with a crispy chicken breast.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a polished finish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Perfect Breaded Chicken: For an even crispier coating, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken before frying.
- Customize the Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shapes, such as rigatoni or spaghetti.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for subtle heat.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 490 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 35g
FAQ / Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and provide a slightly juicier result.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Warm the chicken separately in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! Bake breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta recipe is a restaurant-quality meal you can easily recreate at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and watch your dinner table light up with smiles!
Ready to wow your taste buds? Let us know how your dish turns out in the comments below!
