Parmesan Fried Chicken Pesto Pasta
If you're craving a deliciously creamy, flavorful meal, this Parmesan Fried Chicken Pesto Pasta is the answer! Tender fried chicken coated in crispy Parmesan crust, combined with rich and aromatic pesto pasta, makes for an irresistible combination. This dish blends the crispy texture of the chicken with the fresh, herbal flavors of the pesto, creating a comforting, savory meal that will leave you coming back for more. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Parmesan Fried Chicken Pesto Pasta is guaranteed to impress.
Large skillet for frying chicken
Pasta pot for boiling pasta
Mixing bowl for coating chicken
Tongs or spatula for flipping chicken
Grater for fresh Parmesan (optional)
Baking sheet or wire rack for cooling chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts pounded to an even thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto store-bought or homemade
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Start by preparing the chicken. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg.
Dip each chicken breast first in the egg, then coat it with the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
While the chicken is cooling, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Toss the pasta with pesto, adding a little pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly.
Slice the fried chicken into strips and arrange it over the pasta.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and basil leaves before serving.