Who doesn’t love a classic Chicken Parmesan? It’s the ultimate comfort food—crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melty cheese all wrapped up in a comforting embrace. But what if we gave this beloved dish a fresh, herby twist? Enter Chicken Parm Pesto! This recipe takes the crispy, golden perfection of chicken parm and drapes it in creamy pesto sauce for an explosion of flavors. If you’re a fan of pesto, creamy sauces, and cheesy goodness, this one’s for you.
In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of this pesto-infused version of Chicken Parmesan, share some tips for making it even more delicious, and talk about why this is the perfect dish for any night of the week. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering creation!
Why Choose Pesto Chicken Parm?
If you’ve ever thought about adding something new to your Chicken Parmesan routine, pesto is the perfect upgrade. Here’s why:
- Herbal and Fresh Flavor – Pesto, made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, brings a vibrant, fresh flavor to the richness of the crispy chicken and melted cheese. It’s a great way to balance out the heaviness of the classic Chicken Parmesan with something green and aromatic.
- Creaminess – Pesto works beautifully when paired with heavy cream, transforming it into a rich and creamy sauce that coats the chicken and pasta. This combination brings comfort food to a whole new level.
- Easy to Make – Even though it sounds fancy, this Pesto Chicken Parm is surprisingly easy to make! The steps are straightforward, and once you’ve got the chicken crispy and the sauce made, it’s just assembly time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy Chicken Parm Pesto:
For the Chicken:
- 2 thin chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 scrambled eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for seasoning
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- Reserved pasta water
For the Pasta:
- ½ lb pasta (your choice – spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne works great!)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Parm Pesto
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water for later—it’s essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Next, set up your breading station with three separate bowls. In the first bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs. In the third bowl, scramble 2 eggs and season them with salt and pepper.
Now, dunk your chicken breasts in the flour, followed by the egg mixture, and then coat them in breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will give you that crispy, golden exterior that’s essential for any Chicken Parm.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add your breaded chicken breasts to the pan and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides. You want that beautiful crunch while keeping the chicken tender and juicy on the inside.
Step 4: Make the Pesto Sauce
While your chicken is frying, it’s time to make the pesto sauce! In another pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes.
Next, add 1 ½ cups of pesto and 1 cup of heavy cream to the pan. Stir it together and bring it to a simmer. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Let it simmer gently, then add ½ cup of grated Parmesan and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a little reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Top the Chicken
Once your chicken is golden and crispy, it’s time to add a dollop of pesto sauce on top of each chicken breast. Then, pile on the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, in the same pan with the remaining pesto sauce, add your cooked pasta. Give it a little toss and add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Mix it all together until the pasta is nicely coated in that creamy pesto goodness. Finish with more Parmesan and fresh basil if you like.
Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken Parm
- Make Your Own Pesto – If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try making your own pesto from scratch! It’s super simple and can add a personal touch to the dish. All you need is fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Blend it all together, and you’ve got your homemade pesto.
- Pasta Water is Key – Don’t forget to save a little pasta water! The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling to the pasta, making it creamier and more flavorful.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – You want the chicken crispy on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside. Keep an eye on the chicken while frying, and don’t overcook it.
- Add More Veggies – If you want to sneak some veggies into your dish, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach to the pesto sauce. It’s an easy way to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines everything you love—crispy chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and fresh, herby pesto—Chicken Parm Pesto is the answer. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, with the added twist of fresh basil and creamy pesto to bring it to the next level.
It’s also a great option for special occasions like a cozy dinner date or a Sunday meal with family. But honestly, it’s so easy to make that it could easily become a weeknight favorite. Whether you’re a fan of classic Chicken Parm or you’re looking for a fresh new take, this dish will surely impress!
FAQs About Chicken Parm Pesto
Can I make this with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken thighs, they work great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook them through, as they’ll take a little longer than chicken breasts.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
You can definitely experiment with different cheeses! Try using provolone, gouda, or even a little ricotta for an extra creamy texture.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
If you don’t have a broiler, you can simply cover the pan with a lid after adding the cheese. This will help the cheese melt without direct heat.
Conclusion
With its creamy pesto sauce, crispy chicken, and rich cheeses, this Chicken Parm Pesto is a game-changer. It’s comfort food, but with a fresh, herbaceous twist that makes it stand out. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
Happy cooking! 💚