I can’t wait to share this delightful dish with you! Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is one of those recipes that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special date night. I remember the first time I made this for my boyfriend; he was skeptical about the chicken being crispy and the pasta being creamy, but once he took his first bite, he was hooked! The crunchy, cheesy chicken combined with the zesty, creamy sauce feels like a warm hug from the inside. It’s comfort food at its finest!
This recipe is close to my heart because it brings back so many cheerful memories of me slaving away in the kitchen, trying to whisk up something magical. And guess what? It’s also surprisingly easy to make! So, if you’re looking to wow your family or possibly win over someone’s heart, you’re in the right place!
What’s in Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta?
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. They cook quickly and soak up flavor beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives that essential crunch and a burst of savory flavor in the crispy coating. I usually opt for the Parmigiano-Reggiano because it’s richer in taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs provide the ultimate crispiness. They are light and airy, perfect for creating that golden crust on the chicken.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is key to adding brightness and acidity to the creamy pasta. I always prefer using real lemons over bottled juice – it just has that vibrant flavor!
Garlic: A couple of fresh garlic cloves minced will enhance the dish’s flavor. Garlic lovers unite! If I could add more, I probably would!
Heavy Cream: This silky ingredient is vital for creating that luscious sauce. It adds richness that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon.
Parmesan broth or chicken broth: Using broth instead of just water gives the pasta a flavor boost. Homemade is best, but store-bought works great too!
Fresh Parsley: A simple sprinkle at the end, for a pop of color and freshness! Plus, it makes your dish look like it came straight from a fancy restaurant.
Is Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta Good for You?
Now, while this dish certainly tastes indulgent, it has its perks!
Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that keeps you full and aids in muscle recovery – a win for health-conscious eaters!
Garlic: An immune booster and heart protector, garlic has a lot of fantastic health benefits. Oh, and it keeps vampires at bay, too!
Lemon: High in vitamin C, it’s excellent for your immune system – plus, it helps with digestion!
However, you will want to keep in mind that this dish does have heavy cream and cheese. It’s rich and should be enjoyed in moderation if you’re watching your fat intake. But who doesn’t love indulging once in a while, right?
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound, serves 4)
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 lemons (zest and juice)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth (or Parmesan broth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Olive oil for cooking
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound until evenly thin. This helps with even cooking!
4. Dip each chicken breast into the remaining grated Parmesan, then into the panko mixture, pressing down to stick.
5. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked.
7. While the chicken is cooking, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. (I love fettuccine!)
8. In a separate saucepan, heat some olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
9. Add the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer until slightly thickened.
10. Drain the pasta and toss it in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
11. Serve the crispy chicken over a generous portion of creamy pasta, and don’t skimp on garnishing with fresh parsley!
Delicious Extra Tips!
– For a twist, try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the creamy sauce.
– If you’re not a fan of heavy cream, you can substitute it with a mixture of Greek yogurt and some pasta water for a lighter option.
– Serve this dish with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to make it a complete meal.
I absolutely adore this recipe and hope you give it a try! Cooking isn’t just about filling our bellies; it’s about the memories we create and the love we share. I promise this dish will bring you closer to those special people in your life. Don’t forget to share your experience with me; I’d love to hear how your own crispy Parmesan chicken turns out! Happy cooking!