Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta a delicious combination of golden, crispy chicken paired with rich, creamy pasta makes this dish the perfect comfort meal. The crunchy texture of the breaded chicken balances beautifully with the velvety sauce, creating a satisfying dish that’s sure to be a family favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this dish brings together crispy and creamy textures in the best way. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, then finished in the oven for a juicy interior. The pasta is coated in a smooth, garlicky Parmesan sauce that is simple yet incredibly flavorful. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough to make at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crispy Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 eggs

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Pasta:

8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works great)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the crispy chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika. Then In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, place the flour.

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Transfer the fried chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes to finish cooking.

Prepare the creamy pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer until reduced by half. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta and toss until well coated in the sauce.

Slice the crispy chicken into strips and serve it over the creamy pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 550 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce for some heat.

Cheesy Twist: For extra cheesiness, I sometimes mix in shredded mozzarella with the Parmesan.

Lighter Option: I swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Different Proteins: This works great with crispy tofu, shrimp, or even salmon instead of chicken.

Herb-Infused: A sprinkle of fresh basil or thyme adds a fresh twist to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: I reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy. The chicken can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.

Freezing: The crispy chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing it separately from the pasta for the best texture.

Related Recipes:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
• Cheesy Chicken Pasta

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

I make sure to fry the chicken in hot oil and finish it in the oven to maintain its crispiness. Reheating it in the oven instead of the microwave also helps keep it crunchy.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I love using penne or fettuccine, but spaghetti, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta work just as well.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, I substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even unsweetened coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I prepare the chicken in advance and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, I reheat both components and assemble them fresh.

What side dishes go well with this meal?

I usually serve this with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite. The golden, crunchy chicken paired with the rich, cheesy sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether I’m making it for family dinner or a special occasion, it never fails to impress.

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