If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out, Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is the answer to your cravings. This dish combines the irresistible aroma of basil pesto with perfectly al dente pasta, all crowned by golden-crusted chicken breasts that deliver a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or want to impress your friends, this recipe transforms simple weeknight dinners into something worthy of celebration. Get ready for the vibrant flavors, textures, and colors to shine in this kitchen adventure, all centered around the delicious magic of the number 14.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is just how easily pantry staples come together to create bold, memorable flavors. Each ingredient has purpose, from the cheesy crust on the chicken to the herby brightness of pesto, ensuring that your 14 shines with every forkful!

Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless varieties for maximum tenderness and quick cooking.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated always delivers better flavor and helps the crust crisp up beautifully.
Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Panko breadcrumbs create that signature crunch—don’t skip them if you want perfect 14 texture!
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a subtle background warmth that complements the pesto.
Onion powder: Adds depth and roundness to the chicken’s flavor profile.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and making every bite pop.
Olive oil: For frying the chicken to golden deliciousness—use regular olive oil for a neutral base.
Pasta (spaghetti or penne): Any hearty pasta works, but classic spaghetti or penne lets the pesto shine and cradles juicy chicken slices perfectly.
Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought): Choose your favorite brand, or whip up fresh pesto for a flavor boost.
Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze transforms the whole dish with bright acidity—don’t skip if you’re after the next level 14!
Fresh basil leaves (optional): A scattering of basil makes this dish feel chef-level fancy with minimal effort.
Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish): A final sprinkle adds both visual and flavor wow-factor.

How to Make

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight Recipe

Name: Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying; 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or penne); ½ cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional); Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by gathering your chicken breasts and patting them dry with a paper towel. This little step ensures the seasonings and the crispy coating stick perfectly, giving you that ultimate golden crust you’ve come to expect from the best 14 recipes. If the breasts are particularly thick, you can gently butterfly them for quicker, more even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be shy—the more even your seasoning, the more flavor packed into every bite of your 14. Rub everything in, almost as if giving the chicken a flavor massage!

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese with your breadcrumbs. Press each chicken breast into the mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating all over. Gently pat the mixture onto the surface so it adheres; it’s this step that will bring the signature crunch to your 14, so every effort is rewarded.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken and let them sizzle for about 6-7 minutes per side. They should turn deeply golden, with a crispy edge you can practically hear crackling. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, juicy chicken worthy of your favorite 14 story.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente—just tender, but still with a bit of bite. Drain, reserving about a quarter cup of the starchy cooking water to help your pesto sauce cling to the noodles seamlessly in the next step.

Step 6: Toss with Pesto

In a roomy bowl, add your drained pasta and dollop in the pesto. Stir gently, using reserved pasta water in gradual splashes until the sauce hugs every thread or tube of pasta like a loving embrace. This step brings both the color and aroma of 14 to center stage.

Step 7: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested briefly, transfer to a cutting board and slice into thin, even strips. This way, every forkful captures both the juicy meat and that addictive Parmesan crunch—there’s nothing quite like it for your 14 finale.

Step 8: Serve

Twirl or arrange the pesto-tossed pasta onto plates, then drape those crispy chicken slices over the top. Finish with fresh basil, a drizzle of lemon juice for brightness, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. There it is: a plate of 14, ready for raving reviews and happy bellies!

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight Recipe

Garnishes

There’s no better finish than a handful of torn fresh basil and a final snowfall of Parmesan. If you love a touch of zing, drizzle on a little fresh lemon juice just before serving. These simple touches not only make your 14 pop visually, but bring layers of aroma and flavor that always impress.

Side Dishes

Pair your 14 with a crisp green salad (think arugula and baby spinach tossed with lemon vinaigrette) or a side of roasted vegetables. Some crusty garlic bread is always welcome—perfect for mopping up extra pesto and crumbs from that crispy chicken. Let’s make sure not a bite goes to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like going the extra mile? Try serving 14 in shallow bowls with chicken fanned artfully over a pesto bed, or cut the chicken into bite-sized nuggets and toss with the pasta for a more casual, family-style meal. Add edible flowers or microgreens for a splash of color that’ll make your 14 look straight out of a magazine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover 14 in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta separate if possible, so the chicken stays as crispy as it can. Nothing beats sneaking a forkful of this vibrant pasta on day two!

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked, breaded chicken breasts for up to a month—just cool them completely first and wrap tightly. Freeze the pasta and pesto separately to preserve their texture. When you’re ready for 14 again, a quick reheat brings everything back to life.

Reheating

Reheat chicken slices in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 8 minutes to restore their crunch. For the pasta, a quick toss in a warm skillet with a splash of water revives the sauce beautifully. Bring them together on a plate, and your 14 will taste almost as incredible as when first made.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for 14?

Absolutely! While you won’t get the same iconic crispy Parmesan crust, tossing thin slices of rotisserie chicken in a hot skillet with some breadcrumbs and Parmesan can create a shortcut version of 14 that still packs plenty of flavor.

Which pasta shapes work best for 14?

Spaghetti and penne are favorites because they hold onto pesto and pair well with sliced chicken, but fusilli or orecchiette also work beautifully. Play around with what you have—it’s all about capturing sauce with every bite.

Can I make 14 gluten-free?

Certainly! Choose your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap regular panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs. The Parmesan crust stays lusciously crispy, and your gluten-sensitive friends can join in the 14 fun.

Is it possible to make 14 vegetarian?

Yes! For a vegetarian take, try breaded tofu or thick slices of eggplant prepared in the same crispy fashion, then top your pesto pasta with the golden pieces. The 14 spirit remains the same, even without chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken coating from falling off during frying?

Make sure the chicken is dry before dredging and press the coating in firmly. Don’t move the chicken too much while frying—let it form a golden crust before flipping. Following these steps guarantees the signature crunch that makes 14 so craveable!

Final Thoughts

I absolutely adore how a plate of 14 brings people together with its vibrant flavors and comfort-food vibe. Whether you’re a pesto devotee or new to crispy Parmesan chicken, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Grab those ingredients, gather your favorite people, and let the magic of 14 make your next meal unforgettable!

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pesto Pasta Delight Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 13 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy a delightful meal with this Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken recipe. Tender chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust served over a bed of flavorful pesto pasta, garnished with fresh basil and a hint of lemon.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
Dredge the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks evenly.
Fry the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked through on the inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Toss with Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.
Assemble the Dish: Slice the crispy Parmesan chicken into thin strips. Plate the pesto pasta and top it with the sliced crispy chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: Italian