Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Enjoy a delightful blend of crispy chicken and creamy pasta in this delicious recipe. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is a favorite at our dinner table. The combination of crunchy chicken coated in flavorful breadcrumbs and creamy, cheesy pasta is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken that adds a delightful crunch
- Rich and creamy pasta sauce with a hint of garlic
- Easy to make yet impressive enough for guests
A Perfect Family Meal
Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience. This dish combines the satisfying crunch of golden-brown chicken with the smooth richness of a creamy pasta sauce. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings, providing a hearty and comforting option that everyone will love. The combination appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of flavors and textures creates a memorable dining experience, inviting everyone to return for seconds. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve that perfect crispy chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good rule of thumb is to test the oil with a breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to fry. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain the oil temperature, which helps achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken.
When making the creamy pasta sauce, don't rush the process. Allow the garlic to sauté just until fragrant before adding the liquids; this enhances the flavor profile. For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
Storage and Reheating
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
For the Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the recipe.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. In another bowl, place the beaten eggs.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the crispy chicken and serve on top of the pasta, garnished with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta dish offers a balanced meal packed with protein and carbohydrates. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with pasta, you get the necessary carbs to fuel your day, making it a satisfying option for both adults and children.
Additionally, the cream sauce provides a dose of calcium from the cheese, contributing to bone health. By incorporating fresh parsley as a garnish, you also add a touch of vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by substituting the chicken with other proteins, such as shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives can be seasoned similarly and will pair beautifully with the creamy pasta sauce. This allows you to tailor the dish to your dietary preferences while still enjoying the same rich flavors.
For a different twist, try using whole grain or gluten-free pasta to cater to various dietary needs. You can also add seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to the pasta for added color and nutrients, making the dish even more appealing and healthy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and pasta separately and combine them just before serving.
Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
Enjoy a delightful blend of crispy chicken and creamy pasta in this delicious recipe. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
For the Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. In another bowl, place the beaten eggs. Dip each chicken breast first in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the crispy chicken and serve on top of the pasta, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g