Parmesan chicken, creamy chicken pasta, crispy chicken with penne, creamy pasta sauce, chicken with penne, breaded chicken pasta, Italian chicken pasta, cheesy chicken penne.

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

by

Introduction
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is an irresistible combination of crispy, tender chicken paired with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a cozy weeknight meal, it is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. With golden, Parmesan-coated chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a smooth, creamy sauce, every bite of this dish is a delightful experience. In this article, we will break down each step, ingredient, and cooking tip to ensure that your Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is as delicious as possible.

Ingredients for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

For the Penne Pasta and Creamy Sauce:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

The first step in preparing this delicious dish is to prepare the chicken. Start by gently flattening the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  2. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness.

This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.

Step 2: Preparing the Breading Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix together the following ingredients:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Italian breadcrumbs
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dried basil
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper

This mixture will form the delicious crust that gives the chicken its crispy exterior. In another shallow bowl, whisk the two eggs until they are well-beaten. You will dip each chicken breast in the egg wash before coating it in the breading mixture.

Step 3: Coating and Cooking the Chicken

To coat the chicken:

  1. Dip each flattened chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  2. Next, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

Once your chicken is breaded, it’s time to cook it:

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  3. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Cooking the Penne Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes for al dente pasta. Be sure to:

  • Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta, saving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later if needed.

Set the cooked pasta aside and begin preparing the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Preparing the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for frying the chicken, add one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 2-3 minutes, or until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the following ingredients to the skillet:

  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of chicken broth

Stir the mixture, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper, continuing to stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth.

Once the sauce reaches your desired thickness, toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Variation Ideas for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

Vegetarian Option

If you want to make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply swap the chicken for vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Slice the eggplant or mushrooms into thick rounds.
  2. Bread them the same way as the chicken, coating them with the breadcrumb mixture and then frying them until golden brown.
  3. Follow the rest of the recipe as written.

This is a great alternative for vegetarians or anyone who wants to try something new!

Add a Spicy Twist

For those who love a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce will introduce a wonderful spicy kick. You can also add some fresh chopped chili peppers to the breading mixture for extra spice.

Lemon and Herb Variation

For a fresh and zesty twist, add lemon zest to the creamy sauce. Additionally, fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be added to the sauce for added flavor and aroma. The lemon zest will brighten up the dish and balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

Cooking Notes for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

  1. Cooking the Chicken:
    Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can dry out, losing its juicy texture. Always check the internal temperature to make sure it’s 165°F for perfect, tender chicken.
  2. Pasta Cooking Tips:
    To avoid overcooking your pasta, always cook it according to the package directions and be sure to test it for doneness. Pasta should be al dente, meaning firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
  3. Making the Sauce:
    If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer, but be careful not to burn the cream. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit of the pasta cooking water to adjust the consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich, creamy texture:

  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or bell peppers are great choices. Their crisp and slightly caramelized texture balances the creaminess of the dish.
  • Green Salad: A fresh mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is always a popular option to mop up the extra creamy sauce.

For a more decadent experience, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over the top just before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

  1. Use Fresh Parmesan:
    For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated versions. Freshly grated cheese melts better into the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
  2. Fry at the Right Temperature:
    Make sure the oil is hot enough when frying the chicken. If the oil is too cold, the breadcrumbs will absorb excess oil, resulting in a greasy texture. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may burn before cooking through.
  3. Make Ahead:
    You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to cook, just fry it up and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce

  • Calories: 540
  • Protein: 41g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread and fry the chicken in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it in the oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes before serving.

2. Can I use other types of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Asiago, or Romano to create different flavor profiles for your creamy sauce. Just make sure to grate the cheese finely to help it melt smoothly.

3. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To make the dish lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lighter cream alternative. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Conclusion

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken with Penne in Creamy Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion, delivering a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s sure to impress. From the crispy chicken to the creamy, Parmesan-infused pasta, each element of this recipe complements the others to create a balanced, flavorful dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special celebration, this recipe guarantees a delicious and memorable experience.

For the best results, follow the preparation steps carefully, and feel free to explore the variations to suit your personal preferences. Don’t forget to pair the dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Leave a Comment