Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal that combines the flavors of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and creamy pasta? Look no further than Chicken Parmesan Pasta! This dish takes the classic Italian favorite, Chicken Parmesan, and transforms it into a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish. With its crispy breaded chicken, al dente pasta, and melty cheese, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick and delicious meal. Secondly, it combines the best of both worlds – the flavors of Chicken Parmesan and the comfort of pasta. The crispy chicken adds a delightful texture, while the marinara sauce and cheese create a rich and flavorful sauce. Lastly, this dish can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free pasta or opt for a vegan cheese substitute without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

For this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 large eggs

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 pound penne pasta

– 2 cups marinara sauce

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Chicken Parmesan Pasta:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

3. In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.

4. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs. Mix well.

5. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta.

9. In a large saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed through.

10. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and cut it into slices or bite-sized pieces.

11. Add the cooked penne pasta to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Toss until the pasta is well-coated.

12. To serve, divide the pasta and sauce among plates or bowls. Top with the sliced or shredded chicken and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

13. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Chicken Parmesan Pasta turns out perfectly:

– For extra crispy chicken, you can double coat the chicken breasts by repeating the dipping process in the flour, eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.

– To save time, you can use store-bought breaded chicken tenders or nuggets instead of making your own.

– If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

– To make this dish more nutritious, you can use whole wheat or spinach pasta.

– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor of the dish, but you can also use pre-grated Parmesan if that’s what you have on hand.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

– Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs or even ground chicken.

– If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can add sliced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.

– Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni.

– If you’re vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with breaded eggplant slices or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience by serving it with some delicious accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:

– Serve with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette.

– Garlic bread or cheesy garlic breadsticks make a perfect side dish.

– Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the flavors of the dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to serve. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the components as needed and combine them just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Pasta?

A: Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is traditional for Chicken Parmesan, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for both chicken Parmesan and pasta. With its crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melty cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a delicious plate of Chicken Parmesan Pasta!

We hope you have enjoyed this recipe and that it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experiences and photos with us. Happy cooking!