Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe

Ready for a showstopper? Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is the kind of meal that balances comfort with restaurant-worthy flair. Imagine juicy chicken in a shatteringly golden crust, nestled atop a bed of fettuccine cloaked in a silky Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite delivers crunch, savory richness, and an irresistible burst of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or someone special, this dish brings everyone running to the table and turns an ordinary night into an occasion.

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a laundry list of ingredients to create a masterpiece! Each element in Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is there for a reason—crunch, creaminess, tang, or a pop of color. These straightforward ingredients pull together for a meal that tastes as dazzling as it looks.

  • Chicken Breasts: Thin, boneless, and skinless—ideal for fast frying and juicy results.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Gives the chicken its first light dusting and ensures the coating sticks.
  • Eggs: The essential binder that turns crumbs into a crisp crust.
  • Breadcrumbs (Panko): Use panko for extra crunch—each bite delivers golden texture galore.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to the chicken and a creamy punch to the sauce.
  • Garlic Powder: Infuses delicate garlic flavor through the breading without overwhelming the palate.
  • Paprika: Gives warmth and a subtle smoky undertone to the chicken coating.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: Heightens every flavor—don’t be shy with these essentials.
  • Olive Oil: For pan-frying the chicken to perfectly crisp, golden perfection.
  • Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Heartily holds up the creamy sauce and supports the chicken elegantly.
  • Unsalted Butter: Starts your sauce with rich, smooth flavor.
  • Fresh Garlic: A little minced garlic makes the cream sauce sing.
  • Heavy Cream: The base for that luscious sauce—feel free to swap in half-and-half for a lighter touch.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth while keeping the sauce from feeling too heavy.
  • Fresh Parsley: A vibrant green confetti for the perfect finish.

How to Make Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta—fettuccine or penne—according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but save a generous splash of pasta water. This little trick can help loosen your sauce if it gets too thick later. Set the pasta aside so it’s ready for the creamy finish.

Step 2: Flatten and Bread the Chicken

To get truly even, crisp chicken, gently pound the breasts to a uniform thickness. Set up your breading station: flour in one bowl, eggs in a second, and breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip fully in the egg, and then coat every inch with those glorious, cheesy breadcrumbs. This three-step process is the secret to attaining that extra-crunchy crust.

Step 3: Fry Chicken to Golden Perfection

Pour olive oil into a large skillet and heat on medium. Once it’s shimmering, lay in the chicken (in batches if needed—don’t overcrowd the pan!). Cook for four to five minutes per side until the coating is crisp and deep golden and the chicken is cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and keep warm while you work on the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the butter, scooping up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just about 30 seconds, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it simmer gently until it thickens ever so slightly. Whisk in the grated Parmesan and watch it transform into a rich, glossy sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste and toss your cooked pasta in the pan, making sure every strand gets coated.

Step 5: Serve Your Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Slice the chicken into strips and serve it over a mountain of creamy pasta. Garnish generously with chopped parsley. The combination of crispy, savory chicken layered atop lush, cheesy noodles is what makes Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A flourish of fresh chopped parsley adds both color and a fresh pop to your Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta. For even more beauty and flavor, try a dusting of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of golden olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad (think arugula with lemon vinaigrette) or simple steamed broccoli makes the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of the main event. Warm, crusty bread is also wonderful for soaking up the last drops of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve individual plates twirled with pasta and artfully fanned chicken slices on top. For family-style, present everything in a gorgeous platter, letting everyone help themselves. Or, for fun, serve the chicken sliced on a board and the creamy pasta in a separate bowl, inviting guests to build their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta tasting fresh, store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers. The chicken holds its crunch best if not smothered in sauce until serving time. Enjoy leftovers within three days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken pieces individually on a cookie sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. The pasta and sauce can go together in a freezer-safe container. Thaw everything overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For truly crispy chicken, reheat it in a 375°F oven or air fryer until heated through and re-crisped (about 10 minutes). Gently rewarm the pasta and sauce over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta, offering even more juiciness and flavor. Just allow a little extra cook time as needed.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, simply substitute gluten-free flour, gluten-free breadcrumbs, and your favorite gluten-free pasta. The result is just as satisfying and delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely. Baby spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes are all welcome additions to the creamy pasta sauce for extra color and nutrition.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy?

Keep the chicken separate from the sauce until you’re ready to eat. For serving, place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta, and avoid covering in sauce until the last minute.

How can I make the sauce lighter?

Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce will be a bit lighter but still satisfyingly creamy, keeping the spirit of Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta alive.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes bring smiles to the table as quickly as Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta. Don’t be surprised if this quickly becomes a requested favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and treat everyone to a homemade feast that’s every bit as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Dive in—the creamy, crispy perfection awaits!

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Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the perfect combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta with this delicious recipe. The crispy, golden-brown chicken pairs beautifully with the rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce coating the pasta. A satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!


Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)

For the pasta:

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Dredge chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Fry the chicken: Fry chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, then add cream and broth. Stir in Parmesan until thickened.
  5. Combine and serve: Toss pasta with sauce, then serve topped with crispy chicken and parsley.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • You can also add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Frying, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with pasta
  • Calories: 760
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 760 mg
  • Fat: 39 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 46 g
  • Cholesterol: 215 mg

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