This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is the perfect combination of golden, crunchy chicken paired with rich, velvety pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home!
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup olive oil or butter (for frying)
For the Creamy Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten the chicken breasts: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Set up a breading station:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
- Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour.
- Dip into the egg mixture.
- Coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring until coated.
- Slice the crispy chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
30 Popular Questions & Answers About Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
General Recipe Questions
- What is Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta?
- It’s a dish that combines breaded, pan-fried chicken with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- The sauce and chicken can be made ahead, but breaded chicken is best fresh.
- Do I have to fry the chicken?
- No, you can bake or air-fry it instead.
- What type of pasta works best?
- Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well with creamy sauces.
- How do I keep the chicken crispy?
- Serve immediately and don’t cover with the sauce until ready to eat.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead?
- Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will be juicier.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
- Crushed cornflakes, panko, or almond flour (for low-carb).
- Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
- Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.
- What cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?
- Romano, Asiago, or Grana Padano.
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Cooking & Preparation Questions
- Do I need to pound the chicken?
- Yes, this ensures even cooking.
- How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
- Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly and let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking.
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
- Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Can I air-fry the chicken?
- Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.
- How do I make the sauce thicker?
- Add 1 tbsp flour to the butter and garlic before adding liquids.
Storage & Leftovers
- How long does this last in the fridge?
- 3 days in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, but freeze the chicken separately from the pasta.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream.
- Can I meal prep this?
- Yes! Store chicken and sauce separately, and cook fresh pasta when needed.
- How do I keep the chicken crispy when reheating?
- Use an air fryer or oven instead of the microwave.
Customization & Variations
- How can I make it spicy?
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Can I add veggies?
- Yes! Try spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Can I use a different protein?
- Yes! Try shrimp, pork chops, or tofu.
- How do I make it healthier?
- Use whole wheat pasta and bake the chicken.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, but fresh breaded chicken has the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- What side dishes go well with this?
- Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or Caesar salad.
- Can I serve this as a one-pan meal?
- Yes, cook everything in one large skillet for easy cleanup.
- What drink pairs well with this?
- Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or iced tea.
- Can I make this for a crowd?
- Yes! Make extra sauce and double the chicken.
- Can I cut the chicken into strips before cooking?
- Yes, but it may cook faster, so adjust the time.
30 Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta
For Crispy Chicken
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Season every layer for maximum flavor.
- Let the breaded chicken rest before frying.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
For Creamy Pasta
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best texture.
- Stir sauce constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be al dente.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for brightness.
This Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta is easy, indulgent, and restaurant-worthy—perfect for any occasion! 🍗🍝✨