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chicken parmesan pasta

Chicken parmesan pasta combines crispy breaded chicken, tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese into a comforting one-dish meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beate
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Meanwhile, pound chicken breasts to even thickness, about 1/2 inch. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second, and mix breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup Parmesan and Italian seasoning in the third. Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add breaded chicken carefully. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Let rest briefly, then slice into strips.
  4. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
  5. In the same skillet you used for chicken, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
  6. Arrange sliced chicken over the pasta. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan and all the mozzarella on top. Cover skillet and let cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Garnish your chicken parmesan pasta with fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. You can prepare components ahead of time for quicker assembly. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.