Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

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Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta

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Description:

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Pasta combines tender, crunchy chicken fillets served over a bed of velvety pasta coated in a rich and flavorful cream sauce. The golden, crispy chicken is seasoned to perfection, while the creamy pasta offers a comforting texture. This dish is a perfect balance of crispy and creamy, making it a delightful meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
  • Salt (for pasta water)

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.
  2. In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
  3. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure it sticks.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Set aside.
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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. Slice the crispy chicken into strips and place it on top of the pasta.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.

Notes:

  • Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness before breading to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Pasta Variations: You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but fettuccine or spaghetti works best for this creamy dish.
  • Cheese: For extra flavor, you can add mozzarella or Gruyère cheese to the sauce in addition to the Parmesan.

Tips:

  • Crispier Chicken: For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken (flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then repeat the egg and breadcrumbs).
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for a little heat.
  • Chicken Alternatives: You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
  • Make Ahead: The creamy sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
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Servings:

4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 640 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg

Benefits:

  • High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
  • Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese provides calcium, which supports bone health.
  • Comfort Food: This dish offers a satisfying balance of carbs, protein, and fats, making it ideal for a filling meal.
  • Customizable: Adjust the level of cream and seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Q&A:

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? A: Yes! You can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Q: Can I use a non-dairy alternative for the cream? A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy option like coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish? A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the creamy pasta to add some extra flavor and nutrition.

Let me know if you need any more adjustments or have questions!

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