Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe | Perfect Dinner

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner idea? Look no further than our easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe. This classic Italian dish is a homemade comfort food that is perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner. With its flavorful combination of tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and cheesy pasta, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Preparing this Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a breeze, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering with friends, this dish will impress with its simplicity and irresistible taste. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe.

Key Takeaways:

• Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make at home.
• It is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for weeknight dinners.
• This recipe is family-friendly and is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
• With simple ingredients and easy steps, it is an ideal dish for beginners in the kitchen.
• Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

What You’ll Need

Before you embark on creating this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Pasta, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and cooking essentials at hand. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts: 2 large, boneless, and skinless breasts
• Penne pasta: 12 ounces
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups
• Bread crumbs: 1 cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup
• All-purpose flour: ½ cup
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vegetable oil: for frying
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Make sure you also have the essential cooking equipment, including a large pot for boiling pasta, a frying pan for cooking the chicken, and a baking dish for assembling and baking the Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to prepare a delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta at home:

1. Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Assemble the dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cooked pasta over the sauce, followed by the chicken breasts. Top with more sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once the Chicken Parmesan Pasta is cooked to perfection, garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

“Preparing this Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a breeze! Follow the recipe instructions, and you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful dish on your dinner table in no time.”

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta

To help you achieve the best results when making Chicken Parmesan Pasta, we’ve gathered some expert tips and techniques. Follow these tips and recommended techniques to elevate your dish and make it truly delicious.

1. Cook the chicken to perfection: For juicy and flavorful chicken, be sure to season it generously with salt and pepper before browning it in a hot skillet. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Achieve al dente pasta: To cook your pasta perfectly al dente, follow the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by a minute or two. The pasta will finish cooking when simmered in the sauce later, preventing it from becoming overcooked and mushy.
3. Enhance the flavors: Add extra depth to your Chicken Parmesan Pasta by incorporating herbs and spices like basil, oregano, and garlic powder. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
4. Melt the cheese just right: To achieve that irresistible gooey cheese topping, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the pasta and broil it in the oven until golden and bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

By following these cooking tips and implementing the recommended techniques, you’ll create a Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this classic Italian dish!

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve prepared the delectable Chicken Parmesan Pasta, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to complete your meal. Here are some serving ideas and side dishes that will enhance the flavors of this classic Italian dish:

1. Fresh Salad

Add a refreshing touch to your meal by serving a crisp and vibrant salad alongside the Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Opt for a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

2. Garlic Bread

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience by pairing your Chicken Parmesan Pasta with warm and garlic-infused bread. This buttery and garlicy side dish will complement the rich flavors of the pasta and add an extra layer of deliciousness.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Add some roasted vegetables to your plate to bring a burst of color and nutritious goodness. Roast a medley of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, seasoned with herbs and olive oil, for a satisfying and wholesome side dish.

4. Caesar Salad

Elevate your meal with a classic Caesar salad that combines crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, tangy Caesar dressing, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The creamy and tangy flavors of the salad will beautifully complement the Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

5. Steamed Broccoli

Add a vibrant and nutritious twist to your meal with steamed broccoli. This simple side dish provides a great source of vitamins and minerals while adding a lovely green element to your plate.

Remember, these serving ideas and side dishes are just a starting point. Feel free to unleash your creativity and experiment with other options that suit your personal taste preferences. Whether it’s a side of roasted potatoes or a medley of grilled vegetables, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating the perfect meal around the irresistible Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about Chicken Parmesan Pasta is its versatility. There are numerous recipe variations and ingredient substitutions you can explore to customize the dish according to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your Chicken Parmesan Pasta, try these variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Layer mozzarella cheese between the chicken and sauce for an extra cheesy delight.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for added freshness.

For those with dietary restrictions or looking for ingredient substitutions, consider these options:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken with eggplant slices or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Experiment with these variations and substitutions to create a Chicken Parmesan Pasta that suits your personal taste, dietary needs, or preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is an easy and delicious recipe that brings the classic Italian dish right to your dinner table. This homemade comfort food is perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner, offering a crowd-pleasing option that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

With its simple preparation steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of golden breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese over al dente pasta creates a delightful flavor profile that is hard to resist.

Not only is Chicken Parmesan Pasta a flavorful and satisfying meal, but it also provides the flexibility to customize and adapt according to individual preferences. Whether you want to add some vegetables, substitute the pasta, or experiment with different cheeses, this recipe allows for creative variations without compromising the authentic taste.

So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious dish? With its comforting and hearty nature, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite go-to option for any night of the week. Gather around the table, savor the flavors, and enjoy the pure satisfaction that this crowd-pleaser brings. Buon appetito!