Crispy Chicken With Creamy Pasta Recipe

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Mastering a creamy pasta dish with crispy chicken can turn an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure.

Comfort meets excitement when perfectly seasoned poultry meets silky noodles.

Crunchy exterior gives way to tender meat, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

Succulent chicken pieces nestled atop smooth pasta promises a symphony of textures that dance across your palate.

Kitchen experiments lead to unexpected pleasures, and this recipe offers a delectable journey into home cooking magic.

Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – that’s the secret to making something extraordinary from simple components.

Let’s unlock the potential of this mouthwatering combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Enjoy Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

  • Savor Crispy Perfection: Enjoy a delightful crunch from perfectly breaded chicken that promises a satisfying texture in every bite.
  • Master Easy Cooking: Tackle this recipe with confidence, using simple steps that transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal anyone can prepare.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Create a family favorite that brings everyone to the table, blending creamy pasta with golden, crispy chicken for ultimate satisfaction.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: Whip up a delicious dinner that feels gourmet but requires minimal cooking skills and comes together in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients in Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Chicken Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean protein source that provides the main protein for the dish and serves as the crispy centerpiece of the recipe.
Coating Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps create a smooth base for the breading and ensures the egg and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
  • Large Eggs: Serves as a binding agent to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
  • Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Creates a crispy and flavorful exterior for the chicken.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth base for the cream sauce.
  • Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Combines to create a creamy and flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to both the chicken coating and the sauce.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances the overall seasoning of the chicken and sauce.
  • Italian Seasoning: Introduces a blend of herbs that adds depth to the sauce.
Pasta and Garnish Ingredients:
  • Pasta: Serves as the base for the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying carbohydrate component.
  • Fresh Parsley: Offers a fresh and bright garnish that adds color and a mild herbal note.

Steps to Make Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Step 1: Tenderize Chicken Breasts

Gently pound chicken breasts to create an even thickness using a meat mallet.

Sprinkle salt and pepper across both sides for a delightful flavor boost.

Step 2: Create Crispy Coating

Prepare three shallow dishes for coating.

First, spread flour.

Next, whisk eggs.

Finally, mix:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Dredge each chicken piece through flour, dunk in egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Fry Chicken To Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place coated chicken pieces into hot pan.

Cook until exterior turns gorgeous golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Chicken should look wonderfully crispy and feel firm when touched.

Step 4: Boil Pasta

Fill a large pot with water.

Bring to rolling boil.

Add pasta and cook according to package recommendations.

Once tender, drain completely in a colander.

Step 5: Craft Luxurious Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter.

Add minced garlic and saute until aromatic.

Pour in:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning

Stir continuously and let sauce simmer until it thickens beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta And Sauce

Toss cooked pasta directly into cream sauce.

Ensure every noodle gets generously coated with the silky mixture.

Step 7: Plate And Garnish

Slice crispy chicken into elegant strips.

Place atop sauced pasta.

Tips for Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Success

  • Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to create uniform chicken thickness, ensuring consistent cooking and crispy texture throughout.
  • Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan for extra crunch and flavor, pressing coating gently to help it adhere to chicken.
  • Keep olive oil at medium heat to prevent burning while achieving golden-brown, crispy chicken exterior without overcooking.
  • If sauce becomes too thick, thin with a splash of pasta water or chicken broth to maintain creamy, silky consistency.
  • Replace wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.

Fresh Takes on Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

  • Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace wheat flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and crushed gluten-free rice crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Low-Carb Swap: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to reduce carbohydrate content and add vegetable nutrients.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan, and olive oil instead of butter for lactose-sensitive individuals.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle za'atar seasoning for a bold Mediterranean flavor profile.

Matching Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Sides

  • Pasta Party Platter: Arrange the crispy chicken and creamy pasta on a large shared platter, perfect for family-style dining and easy serving.
  • Fresh Herb Explosion: Sprinkle chopped basil, chives, or extra parsley over the dish to add bright color and fresh flavor that complements the rich sauce.
  • Side Salad Symphony: Pair the meal with a light mixed green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Wine Pairing Magic: Serve with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness and enhance the overall dining experience.

Tips for Keeping Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Fresh

  • Store leftover chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
  • Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through to prevent dryness.
  • Arrange chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to help restore crispiness and prevent overcooking.
  • Gently reheat pasta sauce in a skillet, add a splash of cream or broth to revive moisture, then toss with pasta and top with reheated chicken slices.

FAQs

  • What's the best way to ensure the chicken is crispy?

Coat the chicken thoroughly in breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and make sure the oil is hot before frying. Press the coating gently onto the chicken to help it adhere better and create a crunchy exterior.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe works well with most pasta shapes, fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great alternatives that will hold the creamy sauce nicely.

  • How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there’s no pink and the juices run clear.

Print
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Crispy Chicken With Creamy Pasta Recipe

Crispy Chicken With Creamy Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Creamy parmesan chicken pasta blends Italian culinary tradition with comforting home cooking. Rich flavors and tender chicken make this dish a delightful meal for dinner guests and family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Pasta and Sauce:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Tenderize chicken breasts to uniform thickness using a meat mallet, ensuring even seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. Create a crispy coating by dredging chicken first in flour, then dipping into beaten egg, and finally coating with a blend of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium temperature (around 350°F), carefully frying chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown, crisp exterior.
  4. Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and reserve.
  5. Using the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until aromatic, releasing its intense flavor.
  6. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens.
  7. Gently fold cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.
  8. Slice crispy chicken diagonally and arrange atop the pasta.
  9. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Tenderize chicken by pounding evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness and lighter texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
  • Toast breadcrumbs with Parmesan beforehand to enhance nutty flavor and create a more golden crust.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or cornstarch and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 865 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 55 g
  • Saturated Fat: 23 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 57 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 190 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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