Chicken Parmesan with Pasta

Chicken Parmesan with Pasta is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of chicken and tomatoes in a rich and savory sauce, served over pasta. This classic recipe has been cherished by many for its simplicity yet deliciousness, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The cooking time for this dish is approximately 45 minutes, yielding about 6 servings. You can adjust the quantity of ingredients according to your needs.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups Italian bread crumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) jar of marinara sauce
• 6 ounces uncooked spaghetti or linguine pasta
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
• Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

1. Season both sides of each chicken cutlet with salt and pepper.
2. In one shallow bowl, mix together Italian bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, beat two eggs until well combined.
3. Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, then coat it evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure even coating.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken Cutlets

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Sauté the chicken cutlets in batches (to avoid overcrowding) for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and keep warm on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare Pasta and Sauce

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain well, reserving some of the cooking water for later use if needed.
2. In another large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine marinara sauce and minced garlic. Stir occasionally and simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. To assemble the dish, place a portion of cooked pasta on each plate. Top with fried chicken cutlets and spoon over some of the sauce. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese (if using) and Parmesan for extra flavor.
2. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan with Pasta while it is still hot!

Tips & Variations:

• To add a bit more moisture to the dish, mix in some of the reserved pasta cooking water into the sauce before serving.
• If you prefer a milder flavor profile, reduce or omit the garlic in the sauce.
• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding fresh basil leaves at the end of cooking time.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This Chicken Parmesan with Pasta dish is packed with protein and complex carbohydrates. Each serving typically contains around 500 calories, including fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. However, exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan with Pasta remains a timeless classic that continues to satisfy taste buds across generations. Its combination of savory chicken, sweet tomato sauce, and tender pasta creates a harmonious blend of flavors that make it an instant hit. Whether you are hosting family dinner or simply making a comforting meal for yourself after a busy week, this recipe provides the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness.