Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this Crispy Parmesan Chicken served over a dreamy Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta. The chicken is tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and paired with a rich, tangy pasta that’s packed with garlic and parmesan flavor. This 30-minute recipe is the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flair, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Irresistibly Flavorful: The crispy parmesan chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, zesty pasta.
- Customizable: Switch up the pasta type or add veggies for a personal twist.
- Restaurant-Quality: Impress your family with a dish that tastes like it came from a fine Italian restaurant.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta of choice (e.g., thin spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Juice of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan for the pasta
- Whisk
- Two shallow dishes for coating the chicken
- Microplane grater (for freshly grated parmesan and lemon zest, if desired)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half to create thinner pieces for quicker cooking. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a shallow dish. In a second shallow dish, mix the Italian bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and flour.
Dip each piece of chicken into the melted butter, ensuring it’s well-coated, then dredge it in the bread crumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet (or a medium-sized one), add the heavy whipping cream, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture over medium-high heat until it starts to thicken, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy lemon garlic mixture.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the creamy lemon garlic pasta and top with the crispy parmesan chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Variations
- Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta.
- Zesty Upgrade: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey cutlets for a fun variation.
Helpful Notes
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before slicing to ensure even cooking.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture in both the chicken and pasta.
- Keep the skillet at medium heat to prevent the breading from burning before the chicken cooks through.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Always use room-temperature cream to prevent the sauce from curdling.”
- Giada De Laurentiis: “Season every layer of your dish—don’t skip salting your pasta water!”
- Gordon Ramsay: “To ensure crispy chicken, let the coated pieces rest for a few minutes before frying.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
While freshly cooked chicken gives the best flavor and texture, pre-cooked chicken can be used in a pinch. Simply bread and lightly pan-fry it to reheat and crisp the exterior.
2. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the pasta and chicken separately. Use a skillet with a splash of cream for the pasta and an oven or air fryer for the chicken to maintain its crispiness.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter, cream alternatives, and vegan parmesan substitutes for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness before serving.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
The chicken freezes well, but the pasta sauce may separate upon thawing. Freeze the chicken separately and prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve.
This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is an unforgettable combination of flavors and textures. Easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for company, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!
