Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Introduction
Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and al dente pasta? Look no further than Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta, a mouthwatering dish that will leave you wanting more. This recipe takes the classic Chicken Parmesan and elevates it to a whole new level by incorporating it into a hearty pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a must-try recipe. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can whip up this dish with confidence. Secondly, it offers a delightful combination of textures – the crispy chicken pairs perfectly with the tender pasta, creating a satisfying bite. Lastly, this recipe is highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
Ingredients
To make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and pour the marinara sauce over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the sliced chicken. Toss until the pasta is coated with the marinara sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results, follow these expert tips:
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought breaded chicken tenders instead of making them from scratch.
- To make this recipe healthier, use whole wheat pasta and bake the chicken instead of frying.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and color.
- Swap the penne pasta for spaghetti, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta shape.
- Replace chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea for a well-rounded meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bread the chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Cook the chicken and pasta just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly fine in this recipe. However, if you have the time, homemade marinara sauce adds an extra depth of flavor.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of both worlds – crispy chicken and comforting pasta. With its delicious flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that will impress everyone at your table. Bon appétit!
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and al dente pasta. This recipe takes the classic Chicken Parmesan and elevates it by incorporating it into a hearty pasta dish, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and pour the marinara sauce over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the sliced chicken. Toss until the pasta is coated with the marinara sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!