Description
A quick and satisfying dish featuring chicken and pasta tossed in vibrant basil pesto and topped with crispy Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 12 oz pasta (your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add olive oil to a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the same pot.
- Stir in the basil pesto, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the pasta until well combined.
- Mix breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet, topping each piece with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the breadcrumbs turn golden.
- Serve the crispy Parmesan chicken over the pesto pasta.
Notes
For variations, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled vegetables. Use portobello mushrooms or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian