🍝 Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce (aka the Dreamiest Comfort Combo Ever)

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Let’s Talk About the Ultimate Mashup 💥

Okay, hear me out: chicken parmesan and vodka sauce? Together? In one dish?? It’s the kind of dinner that makes you do a happy dance in the kitchen. This is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly super simple—and it’s guaranteed to impress.

Imagine juicy, golden-fried chicken cutlets smothered in creamy, garlicky vodka sauce, topped with melty mozzarella, and served over a bed of saucy pasta. Total comfort food goals. And the best part? You can whip it up in under an hour!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this restaurant-worthy combo:

For the Pasta:

  • ½ lb pasta of choice (rigatoni, penne, or shells are perfect)
  • Salted water for boiling
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water

For the Chicken Cutlets:

  • 2 thin chicken breasts (or slice one large breast in half)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style preferred)
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning
  • Vegetable or olive oil for frying

For the Vodka Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 shot vodka (optional—sub with broth or skip)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes to taste

For Topping:

  • Fresh mozzarella (sliced or shredded)
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Fresh basil (optional but adds a pop of freshness)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce

We’ll break it into a few steps so it’s super easy to follow.

1. Boil the Pasta 🍝

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps bring the sauce together later.

2. Bread & Fry the Chicken 🐔

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; another for the beaten eggs; and the last for breadcrumbs.

Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the coating stick.

Once your oil is hot in a pan over medium heat, carefully lay in the breaded cutlets. Cook each one for about 3–4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to rest.

3. Make That Creamy Vodka Sauce 😍

In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add your garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute.

Now stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a few minutes. It should darken slightly and start to caramelize, which adds deep flavor to the sauce.

At this point, add the vodka (or broth, if subbing). Let it simmer to reduce slightly. Then pour in the heavy cream and whisk everything together until smooth.

Lower the heat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Stir in the Parmesan until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.

4. Finish the Chicken Parm 🔥

Next, spoon some vodka sauce over each piece of crispy chicken. Top with mozzarella and place under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

5. Toss the Pasta 💫

Add your cooked pasta to the remaining vodka sauce. Toss well to coat, and splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Finish with another sprinkle of Parmesan for that ultra-satisfying finish.

6. Assemble & Serve 🍽️

Plate the pasta, then top with a cheesy chicken cutlet. Garnish with more Parmesan and some fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

💡 Pro Tips for Next-Level Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce

  • Want to make it ahead? Prep the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat gently and assemble when ready to eat.
  • No vodka on hand? Sub with chicken broth or skip entirely. The flavor will still be fantastic.
  • Craving extra heat? Add more chili flakes to the sauce or a splash of hot sauce.
  • Using fresh mozzarella? Drain it well before topping the chicken so it melts evenly.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe is:

  • ✅ Crispy and creamy in every bite
  • ✅ Ultra-satisfying and indulgent
  • ✅ Surprisingly easy for something that tastes this fancy
  • ✅ Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you’re just feeling extra

🍽️ More Saucy Favorites to Try

If you loved this one, check out these recipes next:

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about combining two comfort food classics into one epic meal. The crispy chicken, the rich and creamy vodka sauce, the gooey cheese—it’s a flavor explosion in the best way possible. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just treating yourself, this Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce is an instant favorite.

Have questions or want to show off your version? Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your creations! 🍽️✨