Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan: 1 Mouthwatering Way

July 29, 2025

Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan has become my go-to weeknight wonder, transforming a simple meal into something truly special. I remember the first time I tried to recreate that perfect crunch on my pesto pasta – it was a disaster of soggy cheese! But then I discovered the magic of combining tender pasta coated in fragrant basil pesto with juicy chicken boasting a golden, crispy parmesan crust. It’s an easy crispy pesto pasta parmesan that comes together surprisingly fast, filling my kitchen with the most amazing aroma. You’ll love the satisfying crunch and savory flavors. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this incredible meal.

The amazing taste of savory pesto pasta paired with a delightfully crispy parmesan chicken is simply irresistible.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
You get fantastic flavor and texture without a lot of fuss, ensuring delicious results every time.
Achieving those perfect pesto pasta parmesan crispy edges on the chicken is easier than you think!
It’s a budget-friendly option that feels like a gourmet meal, saving you money without sacrificing quality.
Kids and adults alike adore the combination, making it a truly family-friendly option.
The craveable crunch and vibrant pesto flavor mean you’ll be dreaming of these pesto pasta parmesan crispy edges long after the meal is done.

Ingredients for Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

Gathering these ingredients is the first step towards an amazing parmesan pesto pasta bake crispy dinner. You’ll need essentials for both the chicken and the pasta, ensuring every component shines.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These will be our crispy stars!
1/2 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This is key for that golden, crispy coating.
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – Panko gives the best crunch, making the chicken extra crispy.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth to the coating.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For that classic herby flavor.
1 egg, beaten – Acts as the binder for our crispy coating.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For pan-frying the chicken to a golden perfection.
8 oz rotini or pasta of choice – Rotini holds the pesto sauce beautifully.
1/2 cup basil pesto – The heart of our pasta dish, packed with fresh flavor.
2 tablespoons reserved pasta water – This magical liquid helps emulsify the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil – To toss with the pasta and pesto.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan – For an extra layer of cheesy goodness on top.
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional) – Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma.

How to Make Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

Let’s get this delicious meal on the table! Following these simple steps will ensure you achieve that perfect balance of creamy pasta and wonderfully crispy chicken.

Preparing the Chicken

Step 1: If your chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them by slicing them horizontally, almost all the way through, to create thinner, more even cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more uniformly.
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a truly crispy coating.
Step 3: Season both sides of the chicken generously with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Coating the Chicken

Step 4: In a shallow bowl or dish, whisk together the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. This mixture is your secret weapon for that amazing pesto pasta recipe crispy parmesan topping.
Step 5: Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
Step 6: Immediately transfer the egg-coated chicken to the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press gently on both sides to ensure the coating adheres well. This creates the foundation for our crispy parmesan crust.

Cooking the Chicken

Step 7: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers.
Step 8: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust and for the chicken to be cooked through. The aroma will be incredible!
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a clean cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan: 1 Mouthwatering Way - Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan - additional detail

Cooking the Pasta

Step 10: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 8 oz rotini or pasta of choice.
Step 11: Cook the pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente – tender but still with a slight bite.
Step 12: Before draining, carefully reserve about 2 tablespoons of pasta water. This starchy water is liquid gold for creating a silky sauce. Drain the pasta well.

Combining with Pesto

Step 13: Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large serving bowl. Add the 1/2 cup basil pesto, the reserved pasta water, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Step 14: Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated in the vibrant pesto sauce. The reserved water helps the pesto cling beautifully, creating a luscious coating. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly dressed for that amazing pesto pasta recipe crispy parmesan topping.

Assembling and Serving

Step 15: Spoon the pesto pasta onto plates.
Step 16: Slice the rested crispy parmesan chicken and arrange the pieces over the pasta.
Step 17: Sprinkle with the extra 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your delicious pesto pasta recipe crispy parmesan topping masterpiece!

Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan: 1 Mouthwatering Way - Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

Want to elevate your Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect crispy texture and amazing flavor.

Don’t skip patting the chicken dry – it’s essential for a crispy coating.
Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken to get an immediate sear.
Use panko breadcrumbs for the ultimate crunch; regular ones won’t give you the same crispiness.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking is key to juicy meat, even with a crispy crust.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy parmesan on pasta pesto?

The magic lies in a few things: using panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch, ensuring the chicken is dry before coating, and not overcrowding the pan when cooking. These steps help achieve that ideal how to get crispy parmesan on pasta pesto result. For more culinary inspiration, explore our collection of recipes.

Can I make Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead. Coat the chicken and refrigerate it, and cook the pasta and toss it with pesto. However, for the absolute best crispy chicken, I recommend cooking it just before serving. If you’re looking for other quick chicken dishes, check out this Mediterranean Chicken Gyros recipe.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan?

The most common mistake is a soggy crust, usually from not drying the chicken or overcrowding the pan. Another pitfall is overcooking the chicken, making it dry. Make sure your oil is hot and cook in batches if needed. Learning about proper cooking techniques can help prevent these issues; consider reading about how to cook chicken breast.

Best Ways to Serve Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

This incredible Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan is a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides to round out the flavors. For a delightful contrast, serve it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the pesto and cheese. I also find that a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus complements the dish beautifully, offering a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. For a truly satisfying experience, consider serving it with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top for that extra bit of texture, making it a true pesto pasta with crunchy parmesan delight. If you enjoy flavorful chicken dishes, you might also like our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

Nutrition Facts for Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

Let’s break down what makes this Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan so satisfying. This information is based on one serving, giving you a good idea of the nutritional profile of this delicious dish.

Calories: 520
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: 670mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy meal ideas, explore our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

How to Store and Reheat Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

Enjoying your Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan leftovers is easy with these simple storage and reheating tips. Once the dish has cooled slightly, portion any remaining pasta and chicken into airtight containers. You can store these delicious leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap individual portions tightly first in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pesto pasta leftovers will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the pasta and chicken. Alternatively, a microwave works, but you might lose some of that delightful crispiness. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. For another flavorful chicken option, try our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan

What is crispy pesto pasta parmesan?

Crispy pesto pasta parmesan refers to a dish where tender pasta, coated in flavorful basil pesto, is served with chicken that has a golden, crispy parmesan and breadcrumb coating. It’s a delightful combination of textures and tastes, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is fantastic for holding the pesto sauce, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work wonderfully. The key is to cook it al dente and toss it well with the pesto for a delicious crispy pesto pasta dish parmesan.

How do I ensure the parmesan stays crispy after reheating?

Reheating can be tricky for crispy elements. To maintain some crispiness, reheat the chicken separately in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat until golden again. Then, gently warm the pasta and combine. Microwaving will likely make the chicken coating soft, so the skillet method is best for the ultimate pesto pasta crispy parmesan experience.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! This dish is very versatile. You can sauté some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini with the pasta, or roast some broccoli or bell peppers to serve alongside. This adds extra nutrients and flavor to your pesto pasta with crunchy parmesan meal.

Variations of Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan You Can Try

Looking to switch things up? This Pesto Pasta Crispy Parmesan is super adaptable! You can easily tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand. I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things exciting.

Dietary Swap: For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan are certified gluten-free. This makes for a fantastic parmesan crusted pesto pasta that everyone can enjoy.
Flavor Boost: Don’t have basil pesto? Sun-dried tomato pesto offers a wonderfully different, slightly sweeter flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
Lighter Option: If you prefer a lighter meal, skip the pan-frying and bake the coated chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Veggie Power: Mix in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers with the pasta for added nutrients and color. This creates a heartier, more complete meal that still highlights that delicious crispy chicken.