Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick). This ensures even cooking.
- Set up a breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour in one, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
- Fry the chicken: Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the dish: Serve the creamy pasta on a large platter or individual plates and place a crispy chicken breast on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Optional Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a spicy twist.
- Lemon Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the crispy chicken for a tangy contrast.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Healthier Option: Use whole-wheat pasta and pan-sear the chicken with minimal oil for a lighter version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The crispy chicken provides a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta, making this dish irresistible. The breading on the chicken stays crunchy, while the pasta is luxuriously rich and smooth. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that can easily be made at home, and you can customize it with your favorite add-ins. Perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner to impress your guests!
Enjoy your Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta!