Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines two beloved Italian-American classics: crispy, breaded chicken and a hearty, cheesy pasta. This dish is the ultimate combination of tender, juicy chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and the irresistible flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. The crispy chicken is perfectly paired with a bed of pasta, making it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a cozy weeknight meal, Chicken Parmesan Pasta will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.

This dish is an easy and convenient way to enjoy the deliciousness of Chicken Parmesan without all the fuss of frying chicken cutlets. The chicken is baked until golden and crispy, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Paired with your favorite pasta, it creates a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this tasty dish, share helpful tips, and explore variations to suit your personal preferences!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Crispy, Tender Chicken: The breaded chicken breasts are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. This texture contrast is one of the key elements that makes this dish so satisfying.
• Hearty and Filling: With the combination of chicken, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is incredibly filling and will leave you feeling completely satisfied.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese bring a creamy, cheesy texture to every bite, elevating the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• One-Pan Meal: This recipe comes together easily and requires minimal cleanup. With just one skillet and a baking dish, you can create a flavorful and hearty meal in no time.
• Versatile: You can adjust the seasonings, cheese, or sauce to your liking, making it easy to customize and tweak the dish according to your tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45-55 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 22-28g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Parmesan Pasta:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your preferred type)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a breading station for the chicken: in one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour; in a second bowl, beat the eggs; and in a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating it evenly, then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure a good, even coating.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. It will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through yet.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the cooked pasta aside.

4. Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the breaded chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken, then top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Chicken Parmesan

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown on top, with the sauce and cheese creating a deliciously melted, gooey layer.

6. Combine with Pasta

While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the pasta. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a light sauce. Toss the pasta to coat it with the water, then season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven. Slice the chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the pasta to the serving plates, then top with the sliced chicken Parmesan. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Use Fresh Chicken Breasts: For the juiciest and most tender chicken, use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you use frozen chicken breasts, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Double-Bread the Chicken: For extra crunch, you can double-bread the chicken. After dipping it in the egg and breadcrumb mixture, dip it again in the egg and breadcrumbs to create a thicker, crispier crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure the breading crisps up evenly and the chicken cooks through without getting soggy.
• Use Quality Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce plays a big role in the flavor of this dish. Use a high-quality store-bought sauce or make your own from scratch for the best taste.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
• Add More Cheese: If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to add extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top of the chicken before baking. The more cheese, the better!

Variations of Chicken Parmesan Pasta

• Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti Squash: For a lower-carb version of this dish, swap the pasta with roasted spaghetti squash. It provides a similar texture to pasta but with fewer calories and carbs.
• Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles: Another healthy twist is to replace the pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles). They add a light, fresh element and pair wonderfully with the rich, cheesy chicken.
• Chicken Parmesan with Pesto: Add a twist by mixing in a bit of pesto with the marinara sauce. The fresh, herby flavors of pesto add depth and complexity to the dish.
• Buffalo Chicken Parmesan: If you enjoy a little heat, drizzle some buffalo sauce over the baked chicken before adding the cheese. It creates a spicy, tangy twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan.
• Eggplant Parmesan Pasta: For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for breaded and baked slices of eggplant. Follow the same steps to assemble the dish, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the pasta and chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze Chicken Parmesan Pasta for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Pair this hearty dish with side dishes that complement the flavors of the chicken and pasta:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with pasta, garlic bread adds a crunchy, buttery element that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons makes for a nice, light side dish to balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great side that adds a smoky flavor and complements the savory chicken.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce and crispy chicken. For a lighter option, try a Pinot Grigio.

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Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy, tender chicken paired with the rich tomato sauce and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table smiling. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and customizable flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a delicious, homemade Italian meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, date night, or just because, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this classic comfort food!