Crispy Chicken Pesto Pasta Extravaganza

Crispy Chicken Pesto Pasta Extravaganza

Pasta is the perfect dinner option, especially when paired with pesto and crispy Parmesan chicken! This creamy pesto pasta is incredibly vibrant and fresh, while the crispy chicken takes it up a notch. Even the pickiest eaters will find themselves reaching for seconds!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

CREAMY PESTO SAUCE

  • 1 tablespoon – unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons – garlic finely minced
  • 3/4 cup – pesto
  • 1 1/4 cup – heavy cream
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup – parmesan more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons – cream cheese
  • red pepper flakes to taste
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

OTHER

  • 16 ounces – pasta shape of choice
  • 2 – chicken breasts halved
  • oil for frying

WET BATTER

  • 1 – large egg
  • 1 teaspoon – Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon – grated parmesan
  • 1/2 teaspoon – salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon – black pepper

DRY BATTER

  • 1/3 cup – plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup – Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup – grated parmesan
  • 1/2 tablespoon – Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon – oregano
  • 1 teaspoon – dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon – salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon – black pepper

STEPS TO FOLLOW:

Crispy Chicken Preparation

Step 1: Make the Wet Batter

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, black pepper, and salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture

In a deep bowl, combine plain breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip the chicken in the wet batter with one hand, letting excess drip off. Then, use your other hand to coat it thoroughly in the dry breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken, allowing them to rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil for shallow frying until hot.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Fry the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, turning to ensure even cooking. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the pesto and heavy cream, mixing well. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Add Cheeses

Once bubbling, incorporate the cream cheese and a generous amount of Parmesan, stirring until fully blended.

Step 4: Season

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Cook the Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain when al dente and toss with the creamy pesto sauce.

Step 2: Serve

Chop the crispy chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Enjoy warm!

Crispy Chicken Pesto Pasta Extravaganza

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