Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

Pantry Staples

Pantry staples are the fundamental components that form the backbone of many recipes, including the classic Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish.

For this recipe, you will need a few key pantry staples to ensure it turns out perfectly:

Pasta: A short, sturdy pasta shape like penne or rigatoni is ideal for Chicken Parmesan. This type of pasta has ridges or texture that allows the sauce to cling to it.
Canned Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple and add a rich, tangy flavor to the sauce. Look for crushed or diced tomatoes that have no added salt or sugar.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used not only for cooking but also as a finishing touch to enhance the flavors of the dish. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Garlic and Onion Powder: While fresh garlic and onions are always preferred, powder forms are convenient pantry staples that add depth to the sauce. Use them in moderation as they can quickly overpower the dish.
Dried Basil: Fresh basil is a popular herb used in many Italian recipes, but dried basil is an excellent pantry staple for times when fresh herbs are not available or for added convenience.
Salt and Pepper: While it might seem obvious, salt and pepper are essential pantry staples that enhance the flavors of every dish. Use them generously to taste, taking care not to over-season the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is an integral component of Chicken Parmesan and adds a nutty, salty flavor to the pasta and sauce. Freshly grate or shave the cheese for the best results.
All-purpose Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour is used to dredge the chicken in the breading mixture. This helps create a crispy exterior on the chicken while preventing it from becoming greasy or soggy.
Eggs: Beaten eggs are used to moisten and enrich the bread crumbs, giving the chicken a richer flavor and texture. Use room temperature eggs for easier whisking and mixing.
Bread Crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs or regular bread crumbs work well as a coating for the chicken. They add a crunchy texture and help create a crispy exterior on the chicken.

These pantry staples are the foundation upon which a delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish is built, ensuring that every bite is rich with flavor and texture.

Avg amount of 8 oz spaghetti pasta, 1 cup all purpose flour

To make this delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish, you will need to gather the following ingredients.
The pasta is a crucial component, and for 4 servings, you can use approximately 8 ounces (225g) of spaghetti pasta. This amount will provide a good balance between the pasta and the other ingredients in the dish.
For the sauce, you will need about 2 cups (475ml) of marinara sauce. You can either make your own homemade sauce or use store-bought marinara sauce as a substitute.
The all-purpose flour is used to coat the chicken before frying it. A cup (120g) of all-purpose flour should be sufficient for this purpose. However, you may need to adjust the amount depending on how thick you like your coating.
For the cheese, you will need about 1 cup (115g) of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup (30g) of grated Parmesan cheese.
The chicken breasts are the protein component of this dish. You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders for this recipe. Two large chicken breasts should be sufficient for 4 servings.
Finally, you will need some olive oil for frying the chicken and a pinch of salt to season the pasta water.
With these ingredients in hand, you are now ready to start making your delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish.

Pinch salt and a grind black pepper

The key to making a great Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients.

To start, you’ll need some high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which should be pounded thin to ensure even cooking.

You’ll also need a few cups of pasta, preferably something like spaghetti or fettuccine that can hold onto the rich flavors of the sauce.

In terms of seasonings, a pinch of salt is essential to bringing out the natural flavors in your ingredients. Use a flaky, high-quality salt like Himalayan pink salt for added depth.

A grind of black pepper, preferably freshly ground from whole peppercorns, adds a subtle yet essential kick to the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality peppercorn mill to get the best flavor out of your pepper.

The sauce for this recipe is a classic marinara, made with crushed San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients and let the sauce simmer slowly for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

To complete this recipe, you’ll also need some grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. Be sure to sprinkle it generously over your pasta and chicken for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Methods and Techniques

Breading the Chicken

Cooking chicken for the Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe requires a specific technique to achieve that perfect crunch on the outside and juicy interior. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore various cooking methods and techniques to help you prepare perfectly breaded and cooked chicken.

Breading the chicken is an essential part of preparing Chicken Parmesan. The right breading technique can make all the difference in achieving that crispy exterior and tender interior. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the breading process, including various methods and tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly.

Dredging Method: One popular method for breading chicken is the dredging method. To start, pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy exterior during the cooking process. Next, prepare three separate dishes: one for flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), one for eggs beaten with a fork, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.

Dredge the chicken breasts first in the flour mixture, coating evenly on both sides. This step helps create a crust that adheres well to the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture. After dredging in the flour, dip each breast in the beaten eggs, making sure to coat them fully but not dripping with excess liquid. Finally, roll the coated chicken breasts through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.

Egg Wash Method: Another popular method for breading chicken is using an egg wash before applying breadcrumbs. Mix together whole eggs and a pinch of water or milk until smooth. Dip each chicken breast in this mixture and then roll it immediately in the breadcrumb mixture while still moist, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.

Cornstarch Breading Method: For those who prefer a lighter breading with less mess, try using cornstarch as an alternative to traditional breadcrumbs. Simply mix equal parts cornstarch and all-purpose flour and use this blend for dredging before applying egg wash and then breadcrumbs as usual. This method produces a delicate, crunchy exterior that pairs well with the flavors in Chicken Parmesan.

Tips and Variations:

To add extra crunch to your breading mixture, try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Experiment with different types of cheese for the breadcrumbs, such as grated mozzarella or even parmesan-crusted breadcrumbs for an added depth of flavor.
If you’re worried about the breadcrumbs falling off during cooking, try chilling the breaded chicken breasts in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying to set the breading.

Dredge chicken cutlets in beaten eggs then coat with breading mixture (flour, parmesan, breadcrumbs)

To achieve the perfect Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish, it’s essential to master various cooking methods and techniques. One crucial step is preparing the chicken cutlets.

Start by dredging the chicken cutlets in beaten eggs, making sure they’re fully coated on all sides. This helps create a smooth surface for the breading mixture to adhere to.

Next, prepare the breading mixture by combining flour, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. The ideal ratio is 2 parts breadcrumbs to 1 part parmesan cheese to 1 part flour. You can adjust this ratio to suit your taste preferences.

To bread the chicken cutlets, dip each piece into the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly. Hold the chicken at an angle and tap off any excess breading. This will prevent a thick crust from forming on the underside of the chicken.

Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. It’s essential to not overcrowd the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary.

Transfer the cooked chicken cutlets to a baking dish and top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

To prepare the pasta, cook according to package instructions or al dente. Typically, it takes about 8-10 minutes to cook spaghetti in boiling salted water. Drain the cooked pasta and toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Assemble the dish by placing a portion of the pasta on each plate, topping with a breaded chicken cutlet, marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and garnishing with fresh basil leaves. This Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Cooking Methods and Techniques Used in this Recipe

Dredging: A technique where ingredients are coated in a liquid or mixture before being cooked.
Breading: A process of coating food with a layer of breadcrumbs, often mixed with cheese and seasonings.
Frying: A cooking method where food is submerged in oil to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Roasting: Not used directly in this recipe but mentioned as an option for cooking the chicken cutlets if needed.

Tips and Variations

To prevent the breading from falling off, you can chill the breaded chicken cutlets in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying.
For a crisper exterior, try adding some cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs to your breading mixture.
You can also use different types of cheese such as provolone or cheddar instead of mozzarella.
Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the pasta for added flavor and nutrients.

Cooking Pasta

The art of cooking pasta is a crucial aspect of Italian cuisine, and mastering various methods and techniques can elevate even the most basic dish into a culinary masterpiece. For a classic recipe like Chicken Parmesan Pasta, understanding the different cooking techniques and methods is essential to achieve that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and presentation.

Boiling, one of the most common methods of cooking pasta, involves submerging the pasta in boiling water for a predetermined amount of time. The water should be salted generously, as this helps season the pasta while it cooks. Using a large pot with plenty of space for the pasta to move freely is crucial, as this ensures that each strand of pasta cooks evenly.

Another method is steaming, which involves placing the pasta in a steamer basket over boiling water. This technique is ideal for delicate shapes and helps retain the pasta’s natural nutrients and flavor. Steaming also results in less starch release, making it an excellent choice for those watching their carb intake or prefer a lighter sauce.

Pan-frying can be used to cook pasta with sauces that require a higher heat level or need browning. This method involves adding the cooked pasta directly to a pan containing olive oil and your chosen sauce. The starches on the surface of the pasta help thicken the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.

Sautéing, also known as tossing, is an excellent technique for quickly cooking pasta with sauces that have been pre-made or require minimal preparation time. This method involves using a mixture of oil and sauce in a pan to cook the pasta, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

For a Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish, it’s essential to master the stir-frying technique. This process involves quickly cooking sliced chicken breast with garlic, herbs, and spices before adding pre-cooked pasta and a generous helping of marinara sauce to create a classic Italian-American combination.

To enhance your Chicken Parmesan Pasta experience, experiment with different cooking techniques and methods to develop an expertise that allows you to confidently tackle various recipes. The mastery of cooking pasta is not just about the food; it’s also an opportunity to learn patience and develop your fine motor skills as a cook.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti al dente, about 79 minutes.

Cooking methods and techniques play a crucial role in preparing a delicious meal, such as our featured recipe, Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Here’s an overview of some essential cooking methods and techniques to keep in mind:

Cooking Methods

There are several cooking methods that can be used to prepare a variety of dishes, including grilling, roasting, sautéing, boiling, steaming, and frying.

Grilling: This method involves cooking food directly over high heat, usually on a grill or grill pan. It’s perfect for dishes like burgers and steaks.
Roasting: Roasting involves cooking food in the oven using dry heat. It’s great for cooking large cuts of meat and vegetables.
Sautéing: Sautéing is a quick cooking method that involves cooking food in a pan with a small amount of oil or fat. It’s ideal for dishes like stir-fries and omelets.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking techniques are the methods used to prepare ingredients before cooking, such as chopping, slicing, dicing, and mincing. Here are some essential cooking techniques:

Chopping: Chopping involves cutting food into small pieces using a knife.
Slicing: Slicing involves cutting food into thin pieces, usually using a sharp knife.
Dicing: Dicing involves cutting food into small cubes, ideal for dishes like soups and stews.

Cooking Pasta Al Dente

Cooking pasta al dente is an essential technique when preparing dishes like Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Here’s how to cook spaghetti al dente:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to the boiling water.
Carefully add 1 pound of spaghetti to the boiling water.
Cook for about 7-9 minutes, or until al dente. (Al dente is when the pasta still has a bit of bite and texture).

By following these cooking methods and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to preparing delicious dishes like Chicken Parmesan Pasta.

Assembly and Serving

Tossing the Sauce

To assemble and serve the Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish, follow these steps:

Fry the chicken cutlets until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, then set them aside.
Next, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
While the pasta cooks, warm up your marinara sauce over medium heat in a separate pan.
To assemble the dish, place a portion of the cooked pasta on each plate, followed by a fried chicken cutlet.
Then, spoon some marinara sauce over the top of the chicken, covering it completely.
Finally, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce to give it that golden-brown color and creamy texture.
To serve, place a side salad or garlic bread on the plate for added flavor and nutrition. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes, if desired.
For tossing the sauce: once you’ve assembled all the components of the dish, it’s time to toss them together so that each bite has a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
To do this, hold your tongs or serving spoon over the top of the pasta and gently lift up the chicken cutlet and sauce, allowing any excess sauce to drizzle back down onto the pasta below.
Then, quickly turn the tongs or spoon in a circular motion to toss everything together, coating each strand of pasta with the marinara sauce and sprinkled mozzarella cheese.
The end result should be a beautifully presented Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!

In a saucepan, combine marinara sauce and heavy cream over low heat. Simmer until heated through. Stir in parmesan cheese, until melted

To assemble and serve Chicken Parmesan Pasta, follow these steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a saucepan, combine marinara sauce and heavy cream over low heat. Simmer until heated through, stirring occasionally.
While the sauce is heating up, prepare the chicken cutlets by pounding them thin with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Season both sides of each cutlet with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each cutlet in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
While the chicken is frying, melt butter in a separate saucepan over low heat. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
To assemble the pasta dish, place cooked spaghetti on a large serving platter or individual plates. Spoon marinara sauce mixture over the top of the pasta, followed by sliced fried chicken cutlets.
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese mixture and garnish with chopped parsley, basil, or other herbs of your choice.
Serve immediately, drizzling reserved pasta water around the dish if desired to create a creamy sauce.

Tips and Variations:

To make this recipe more substantial, add some cooked vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or broccoli on top.
For an extra crispy coating, dip the breaded chicken cutlets in beaten eggs again before frying.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, instead of parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
Add some spice with red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to give the dish a kick.

Serving Suggestions

To assemble this mouth-watering Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish, start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each piece of chicken in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the breaded chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add canned crushed tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for 5 minutes over low heat.

Once the pasta is done cooking, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining it. Add the cooked pasta back into the large skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together until well combined, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

To serve, place the chicken on top of the pasta and cover with grated mozzarella cheese. Place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. You can also offer additional serving suggestions such as a side salad, garlic bread, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to complement this mouth-watering Chicken Parmesan Pasta dish.

Some other ideas for serving and presenting your Chicken Parmesan Pasta include:

Garnishing with chopped parsley or chives instead of basil for a different flavor profile
Adding some diced ham or cooked bacon on top of the pasta for added smokiness
Serving the dish in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a more intimate presentation

Divide cooked pasta between individual plates. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, then add the breaded chicken cutlet.

To complete the Assembly and Serving of the Chicken Parmesan Pasta, follow these steps:

First, ensure that the cooked pasta is hot and ready to be served.

Step 1: Divide Cooked Pasta

Use a serving spoon or fork to divide the cooked pasta between individual plates. The amount of pasta can vary depending on serving size and personal preference.

Next, add the finishing touches to the dish:

Step 2: Top with Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Cover the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese. You can use a generous amount or follow the traditional serving size.

Finally, add the protein component:

Step 3: Add Breaded Chicken Cutlet

Place the breaded and cooked chicken cutlet on top of the pasta and mozzarella cheese. Ensure it’s securely positioned to prevent falling apart during serving.

The Chicken Parmesan Pasta is now ready to be served and enjoyed! This classic Italian-inspired dish combines perfectly seasoned pasta, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breaded chicken for a satisfying meal.

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Tarquin Pemberton

Sous-Chef Sensation at myfab5.com

Tarquin Pemberton, the culinary virtuoso behind this site, carries the distinguished title of Sous-Chef Sensation. With a flair for creating culinary masterpieces, Tarquin brings his expertise to the world of pet cuisine. His site is a treasure trove for pet owners seeking gourmet and health-conscious recipes to delight their beloved companions. Tarquin's passion for crafting exquisite meals is evident in the delectable and thoughtfully curated content he shares. For those who aspire to treat their pets to a culinary adventure, Tarquin Pemberton's site is a testament to the artistry and skill of a sous-chef dedicated to the gastronomic happiness of our four-legged friends.

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