Chicken Parmesan Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Pasta: the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed! Imagine the crispy, golden-brown perfection of classic chicken parmesan, but instead of being served with a side of spaghetti, it’s all tossed together in one glorious, cheesy, saucy bowl of pasta heaven. Are you drooling yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

While the exact origins of Chicken Parmesan Pasta are a bit murky (likely born from a brilliant home cook looking to simplify dinner!), its parent dish, Chicken Parmesan, has strong Italian-American roots. Inspired by the classic eggplant parmesan, Italian immigrants in America adapted the recipe using readily available chicken cutlets. Over time, it became a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine, a symbol of hearty family meals and comforting flavors.

What’s not to love? The combination of crispy, breaded chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella is simply irresistible. But what truly elevates this dish is the addition of perfectly cooked pasta. It soaks up all that delicious sauce, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. So, ditch the takeout menu and get ready to experience the magic of Chicken Parmesan Pasta – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup olive oil, for frying
• For the Pasta:
• 1 pound spaghetti (or your favorite pasta shape)
• Salt, for pasta water
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
• For the Cheese Topping:
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Chicken

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the chicken! We want it perfectly crispy and golden brown. Here’s how I do it:

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps it cook evenly and makes it more tender. Don’t skip this step!
2. Set up the Breading Station: Get three shallow dishes ready. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk the eggs. In the third dish, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, again ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the breadcrumbs adhere well to both sides. I like to really press them in to get a good, even coating.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the breaded chicken, but not so hot that it burns the breadcrumbs. A good way to test is to drop a small breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown in a few seconds, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

Making the Tomato Sauce

While the chicken is draining, let’s whip up a delicious and simple tomato sauce. This sauce is the perfect complement to the crispy chicken and cheesy topping.

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a little sugar if the sauce is too acidic.

Cooking the Pasta

Now, let’s get the pasta cooking. I prefer spaghetti for this dish, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

1. Boil the Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps to season the pasta as it cooks.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but not hard.
3. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Don’t rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce adhere to it.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to put everything together and create this masterpiece.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with about half of the tomato sauce. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated.
3. Layer in a Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of the remaining tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the pasta in the baking dish.
4. Top with Chicken and Cheese: Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the pasta. Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use Good Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste. Use good quality canned tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the dish just before baking.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the sauce, such as diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variations

• Chicken Cutlets: Use thinly sliced chicken cutlets instead of chicken breasts. This will reduce the cooking time.
• Eggplant Parmesan: Substitute the chicken with slices of breaded and fried eggplant for a vegetarian option.
• Different Pasta: Use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
• Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets to the perfectly al dente pasta coated in a rich, homemade tomato sauce and blanketed with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. I truly believe this dish elevates the classic comfort food to a whole new level, and that’s why I urge you to give it a try. Why is this a must-try? Because it’s surprisingly simple to make, even though it tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the careful layering of flavors. We’re not just throwing things together; we’re building a culinary masterpiece, one delicious step at a time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Looking for serving suggestions? This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A crusty loaf of garlic bread is always a welcome addition for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a more elegant presentation, try serving it with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own. Want to add some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will do the trick. Craving more veggies? Sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach and toss them in with the pasta. You could even swap out the chicken for eggplant for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying. Consider using different types of pasta, like penne or rigatoni, to change the texture. A creamy Alfredo sauce instead of the tomato sauce would create a completely different, but equally delicious, dish. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly long list of ingredients or steps. I’ve broken everything down into manageable chunks, and I’m confident that even beginner cooks can master this recipe. The key is to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is designed to bring joy to both the cook and the diners. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of homemade Chicken Parmesan Pasta for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. So, go ahead, grab your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!

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