Best Easy Breaded Chicken Pasta Recipes
Chicken and pasta make a winning combination that is loved by many. The tender chicken, coated in a crispy breaded crust, adds a delightful texture to the pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, these easy breaded chicken pasta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
1. Classic Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are coated in breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Pan-fry the chicken until golden brown, then slice it into strips. Toss cooked pasta in marinara sauce and top with the breaded chicken strips. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
In a skillet, cook breaded chicken breasts until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Toss cooked pasta in the creamy lemon sauce and top with the breaded chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Coat chicken breasts with a Cajun spice mix and bread crumbs, then pan-fry until crispy. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens, then add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Slice the breaded chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
4. Pesto Chicken Pasta
Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and pesto sauce. Bake the chicken until crispy and cooked through. Meanwhile, cook pasta until al dente. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the cooked pasta and toss with more pesto sauce. Slice the breaded chicken and serve it on top of the pesto pasta.
5. Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta
Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of garlic in a bowl. Dip chicken breasts in the honey mustard mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs. Pan-fry the chicken until golden brown. Cook pasta until al dente, then toss with a creamy honey mustard sauce made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Slice the breaded chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
6. Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Coat chicken breasts with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Buffalo sauce. Bake until crispy and cooked through. Cook pasta until al dente, then toss with ranch dressing. Slice the breaded chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Drizzle more Buffalo sauce on top and garnish with chopped green onions.
7. Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Coat chicken breasts in breadcrumbs mixed with dried basil and garlic powder. Pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through. Cook pasta until al dente, then toss with a homemade tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. Slice the breaded chicken and serve it on top of the tomato basil pasta.
Questions and Answers:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in these recipes?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in these recipes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
2. Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make these recipes gluten-free.
3. Can I use store-bought breaded chicken tenders for convenience?
Yes, you can use store-bought breaded chicken tenders if you prefer a quicker option.
4. Can I make these recipes with different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like or have on hand.
5. Can I freeze the breaded chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken after it has been cooked and cooled. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
6. Can I add vegetables to these recipes?
Definitely! You can add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach, to these recipes for added flavor and nutrition.
7. Can I use a different sauce instead of marinara sauce?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different sauces like Alfredo, pesto, or even a creamy garlic sauce to suit your taste preferences.