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Classic Chicken Parmesan Pasta: A Timeless Comfort Food


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Description

This timeless Italian favorite combines crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, served over pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal. The crispy chicken contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta and tangy sauce, making it a classic comfort dish that everyone loves. Simple yet delicious, it’s a perfect choice for a family dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Parmesan:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will be breaded, fried, and topped with marinara sauce and cheese.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken before breading, helping the breadcrumbs stick.
  • 2 large eggs: Beaten, used for the egg wash to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
  • 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds crunch and flavor to the chicken.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the breading.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: To season the breadcrumbs and add an herbaceous flavor to the chicken.
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning the chicken and breading.
  • 1 cup marinara sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce, which will be used to top the chicken and pasta.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For melting over the chicken, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni): Choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce and chicken well.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: To cook the pasta, and also helps prevent it from sticking together.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil or parsley: For garnish, adding freshness and color to the finished dish.
  • Extra Parmesan: For serving, to sprinkle over the top of the pasta for additional flavor.

Instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE CHICKEN

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. You want to make sure the chicken is well-seasoned before breading.

  2. Set Up Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

  3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating it evenly, then dip it in the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they stick. Repeat with all the chicken breasts.

Second Step: COOK THE CHICKEN

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

  2. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes. This will help keep the juices inside, ensuring the chicken stays moist.

  3. Top the Chicken with Sauce and Cheese: While the chicken is resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken has rested, place each chicken breast on a baking sheet. Spoon about ¼ cup of marinara sauce on top of each chicken breast, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. If you like it extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese.

Third Step: COOK THE PASTA

  1. Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

  2. Drain and Toss with Olive Oil: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Set it aside while the chicken finishes cooking.

Fourth Step: FINISH AND ASSEMBLE

  1. Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This will also help the chicken stay juicy while ensuring the cheese is perfectly melted.

  2. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: While the chicken is baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Once warmed, toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until it’s evenly coated.

  3. Plate the Dish: To assemble, place a serving of pasta on each plate and top with a chicken breast. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color and added flavor. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 680 kcal
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Protein: 42g