If you’re craving a meal that combines irresistible crunch with luscious creaminess, look no further than this Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It brings together perfectly breaded and golden chicken breasts alongside a dreamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce enveloping tender pasta, creating a comforting yet elevated dinner that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this dish promises layers of flavor and texture that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building that perfect balance of crispy texture, rich flavor, and creamy indulgence. These straightforward staples come together harmoniously without any fuss.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to an even thickness to cook beautifully and maintain juiciness.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Provides that golden, crunchy coating essential for the chicken’s texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that enhances both the chicken crust and the pasta sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlic punch into the chicken coating.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the breading.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens the flavors throughout the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the perfect glue for the breadcrumb mixture.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base for the breading to stick effectively on the chicken.
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil: For frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti): Your choice of pasta that will soak up the delicious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the creamy sauce with aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the luscious Parmesan sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a deep, irresistible cheesiness.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens the sauce with Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fine-tunes the seasoning.
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional): Used to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling perfectly to the pasta.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous notes.
How to Make Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding them to an even thickness. This step ensures each piece cooks evenly and stays juicy. Set up a three-bowl station for dredging: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with the breadcrumb mixture blended with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, then egg, and finally coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently so they cling well for maximum crunchiness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the pan and cook about 4 to 5 minutes per side or until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your chosen pasta until just al dente, following package instructions. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water — this magical little addition will help loosen the sauce later, allowing it to cling beautifully to every noodle.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds — this builds a delicious flavor base without bitterness. Pour in the heavy cream and gently simmer before whisking in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. The sauce will thicken and become luxuriously smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and if the sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until it coats the pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet with your creamy Parmesan sauce, making sure every strand or piece is well coated in that velvety goodness. Plate the pasta and top each serving with a crispy chicken breast. Don’t forget to sprinkle with chopped parsley and, if you like, a little extra Parmesan for that final touch of deliciousness.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is an ideal garnish because it adds a bright, herbaceous contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce and crispy chicken. For an extra flavor pop, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of cracked black pepper works beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
This dish is filling but balances well with light sides. A crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provide refreshing texture and nutrients. Garlic bread or crusty baguette can also pair nicely to mop up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, slice the chicken breasts and arrange them elegantly over the pasta nest. Layering some roasted cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top adds color and crunch. Serving this recipe family-style in a large bowl encourages sharing and conversation, making your meal feel warm and welcoming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together or separate if you prefer to maintain crispiness when reheating the chicken.
Freezing
While the creamy pasta sauce doesn’t freeze as well due to possible texture changes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out, preferably in the oven to preserve some of the crispy coating.
Reheating
For leftovers, reheat the creamy pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore some crispness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
While Parmesan is central to the flavor profile of this recipe, you can substitute or add Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt well or that are too mild, as they might not deliver the same creamy richness.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti are excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. Feel free to experiment with your favorites, but avoid very thin pastas like angel hair, as they might get overwhelmed by the sauce.
How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy after cooking?
After frying, place chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess from steam. Also, avoid piling the chicken up, and serve soon after cooking to enjoy its optimal texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?
For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan alternative. For a lighter version, try half-and-half instead of cream, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this recipe can be prepped ahead by cooking the chicken and pasta separately and storing them in the fridge. Assemble and reheat just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is truly a dish that hits all the right notes — crisp, creamy, flavorful, and comforting. It’s straightforward enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for company. Once you try it, it might just become one of your go-to favorites, perfect for sharing good times and great food with those you love.
Print
Crispy Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta recipe features perfectly breaded and pan-fried chicken breasts paired with a rich and velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce tossed with your choice of pasta. The combination offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
For the 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
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 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
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin for uniform cooking. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a breadcrumb mixture made by combining breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss well to coat each strand thoroughly. Plate the creamy pasta and top with the crispy chicken breasts. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a fresh and flavorful finish. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating on the chicken.
- Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen and smooth out the sauce for better coating.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a less rich sauce.
- Can be garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an herbal touch.
