Chicken Parmesan Pasta
"Learn how to make Chicken Parmesan Pasta, a cheesy and flavorful dish combining crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta."
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 can (28 ounces of crushed tomatoes or 2 cups of marinara sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves ,chopped (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for frying, about 1/4 cup
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated provolone cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken: Seasoning and Searing
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Dredge them in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
Creating the Perfect Tomato Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, and dried herbs.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking and Combining the Pasta
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the tomato sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
Assembly and Baking: Bringing It All Together
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish. Add the pasta, then top with seared chicken.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.