Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta. This dish combines the flavors of crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and cheesy pasta to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow along to learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup bread crumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder. In another dish, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the bread crumb mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In a large saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed through. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top with the sliced chicken. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and pasta.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta hot. Enjoy!
Variations
This recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
– Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the pasta for added texture and nutrition.
– Experiment with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to change the dish’s overall character.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta turns out perfectly:
– Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading them. This will help them cook evenly and prevent dryness.
– Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
– If you prefer a spicier dish, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
– For a more indulgent version, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the shredded mozzarella before baking.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan and pasta. With its crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a winner. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought bread crumbs?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought bread crumbs if you don’t have homemade ones on hand. Just make sure they are plain and not seasoned.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is traditional in Chicken Parmesan, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
