Basil Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Chicken

Basil Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together al dente pasta coated in a creamy basil-parmesan sauce and topped with golden, pan-seared or breaded chicken cutlets. It’s rich, aromatic, and satisfying—a perfect fusion of fresh herbaceous notes and crispy indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish offers everything you crave in a comforting meal: a velvety, cheesy basil sauce that clings to each noodle, paired with crunchy, juicy chicken for added texture and flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The fresh basil brings brightness to the rich parmesan, and the crispy chicken adds a delicious contrast to the creamy pasta.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pasta and sauce:

• Pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the crispy chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs, beaten
• Panko breadcrumbs or Italian-style breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for pan-frying (vegetable or olive oil)

directions

1. Prepare the crispy chicken:
   • Pound chicken to even thickness.
   • Dredge in flour seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Dip in beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of panko and Parmesan.
   • Pan-fry in oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Set aside on paper towels.
2. Cook the pasta:
   • Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
3. Make the basil Parmesan sauce:
   • In a blender or food processor, blend basil, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice into a loose paste.
   • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the basil paste and stir for 1–2 minutes.
   • Pour in cream and simmer gently. Stir in Parmesan and mix until smooth. Add pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
4. Combine and serve:
   • Toss cooked pasta in the basil Parmesan sauce until evenly coated.
   • Slice the crispy chicken and place on top of the pasta.
   • Garnish with more Parmesan, basil leaves, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: approx. 40 minutes

Variations

• Use grilled or air-fried chicken for a lighter version.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach to the pasta for more depth.
• Replace cream with whole milk and a touch of cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Use gnocchi or ravioli instead of traditional pasta for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat pasta gently in a pan with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Reheat chicken in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is best for flavor and texture in this sauce, but dried basil can be used in a pinch—just reduce the amount significantly.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes for Parmesan.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

What pasta shape works best?

Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine coat well with the creamy sauce, but penne and rigatoni are also great for catching the sauce.

Is this sauce like pesto?

It’s similar in flavor but creamier and richer—think of it as a hybrid between Alfredo and pesto.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes. Make the basil Parmesan sauce and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add water or cream to thin if needed.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Keep it on a wire rack after frying and don’t cover it—steam will make it soggy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, for a shortcut. Just skip the breading and warm it before serving.

What’s the best way to blend the basil?

Use a blender or food processor. For a chunkier sauce, blend less; for a smooth sauce, blend more thoroughly.

Conclusion

Basil Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Chicken is the kind of meal that brings comfort and freshness together in perfect harmony. With its rich, herb-infused sauce and crunchy golden chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and totally satisfying. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

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