Delicious Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken for Dinner

If you’re searching for a meal that feels both gourmet and comforting, Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken is a perfect choice. This dish combines golden, crunchy chicken cutlets with creamy pesto-coated pasta for the ultimate dinner combination. It’s one of those yummy dinners that looks restaurant-worthy but is simple enough to prepare at home.

From family weeknight meals to special gatherings, this recipe checks every box. It’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile, making it a shining star among pasta dinner recipes and chicken dinner recipes alike.

For more easy meals like this, you might also enjoy our ultimate breakfast sandwich or spicy chicken spaghetti casserole.

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Why This Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Works!

There’s a reason why pasta recipes and chicken pair so beautifully together: they balance indulgence and protein in one comforting bowl. In this recipe, the crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken adds both texture and flavor to the pesto-coated pasta.

Unlike plain pasta dishes, this combination brings variety to the table, creating one of the best pasta dishes for both kids and adults. Plus, the recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes, making it one of the most adaptable chicken dinner recipes out there.

If you love experimenting with pasta, you might also like our white lasagna or bruschetta pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

To make this flavorful meal, here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well)
• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 1 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for garnish)
• ½ cup mozzarella pearls (optional for creaminess)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup flour (for dredging)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

This ingredient list balances simplicity with freshness, perfect for busy cooks seeking easy dinner recipes.

Best Pasta Choices for Pesto Pasta Recipes

Pesto is versatile, but it shines most with pasta that holds sauce well. Fusilli, rotini, and penne are excellent choices since their ridges trap pesto. Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine also work if you prefer twirl-friendly noodles.

The beauty of pesto pasta recipes lies in their adaptability—you can choose whichever pasta suits your mood or what you already have in your pantry.

For another pasta inspiration, check out our roasted vegetable orzo.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
3. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken cutlets until golden brown and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
4. Make the Pesto Pasta
   In a large bowl, toss pasta with pesto until evenly coated. Add mozzarella pearls and cherry tomatoes if desired.
5. Assemble the Dish
   Slice crispy Parmesan chicken and arrange on top of the pesto pasta. Garnish with fresh basil.

Now you have a meal that’s both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for fans of chicken dinner recipes and pasta dinner recipes.

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How to Perfect Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Every Time

Crispy chicken can make or break this dish. Here are a few tips:

• Use thin chicken cutlets for faster, even cooking.
• Press breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken to ensure they stick.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed.
• Drain chicken on a wire rack to keep it crispy.

When done right, this chicken adds the crunch that makes this dish unforgettable among pasta dishes.

Tips for Making the Best Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

While store-bought pesto is convenient, homemade often tastes fresher. To make your own, blend fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil.

If using store-bought, enhance it with a squeeze of lemon or extra Parmesan for a more vibrant flavor. Either way, the pesto provides the aromatic heart of this dish, making it one of the most flavorful pasta recipes you’ll ever try.

Easy Dinner Recipes: Time-Saving Shortcuts

This recipe can be simplified further for busy nights:

• Use pre-cooked breaded chicken tenders for a shortcut.
• Opt for store-bought pesto when short on time.
• Prepare pasta ahead and reheat with olive oil before tossing with pesto.

These shortcuts help you create easy dinner recipes that don’t sacrifice taste or quality.

Serving Suggestions for Pasta Dinner Recipes

Here’s how you can serve your Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken:

• In large bowls topped with extra Parmesan.
• Alongside garlic bread and a crisp salad.
• In smaller ramekins for individual servings at dinner parties.

Presentation elevates this meal from everyday comfort food to something special, ideal for yummy dinners.

Pairings: What Goes Well with Pesto Pasta Dishes

The fresh, herby flavors of pesto pair beautifully with:

• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• A light green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Soups such as garlic potato soup or butternut sweet potato soup.

These sides complement the richness of the pasta and chicken, creating a balanced meal.

Why This Recipe Is One of the Best Chicken Dinner Recipes

Many chicken dinner recipes lean heavily on plain grilled or baked chicken. What sets this dish apart is its crispy Parmesan coating, which brings both flavor and texture. Combined with vibrant pesto pasta, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

This makes it one of the best chicken dinners to impress guests or enjoy as a cozy family meal.

Variations: Healthier, Spicy, or Vegetarian Options

• Healthier: Bake the chicken instead of frying to reduce oil.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto or season breadcrumbs with cayenne.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with crispy eggplant slices or grilled portobello mushrooms.

These options make it adaptable for different preferences while still staying true to its roots as one of the most satisfying pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

• Overcooking pasta, which makes it mushy.
• Using too much oil when frying chicken, which causes sogginess.
• Not seasoning pasta water—it should taste like the sea.
• Adding pesto to piping hot pasta, which can dull the flavors.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures consistently delicious pasta dinner recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken Leftovers

• Store pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat chicken in the oven to keep it crispy.
• Warm pasta on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil.

Handled properly, this dish remains one of those yummy dinners you’ll look forward to again.

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FAQs About Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, any pasta works, but ridged shapes hold pesto best.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and pasta separately, then assemble just before serving.

What cheese works best for the chicken coating?
Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano adds a sharper flavor.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Pesto Pasta with Crispy Parmesan Chicken combines all the best elements of Italian-inspired comfort food: tender pasta, aromatic pesto, and crispy, cheesy chicken. It’s hearty enough for family dinners, elegant enough for guests, and simple enough to qualify as one of the best easy dinner recipes.

If you’re a fan of flavorful pasta dishes and crave a new go-to chicken dinner, this recipe is a must-try.

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