Chicken Parmesan Pasta - A Comforting Italian Classic
Prep time: 50mins | 4 Servings
When you think of hearty comfort food that blends Italian flavors with a family-friendly twist, Chicken Parmesan Pasta is one of the first recipes that comes to mind. This dish takes the beloved chicken parmesan, crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese and pairs it with long strands of spaghetti for a complete, satisfying meal.
What Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Chicken parmesan pasta is a combination of two beloved comfort foods:
Chicken Parmesan (Chicken Parmigiana): Crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella or parmesan cheese.
Pasta: A hearty base that soaks up the sauce and balances the richness of the chicken.
For this recipe, we’ll be pairing the chicken with spaghetti, which holds the sauce beautifully and gives the dish an authentic Italian feel.
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What Is Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Chicken parmesan pasta is a combination of two beloved comfort foods:
Chicken Parmesan (Chicken Parmigiana): Crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella or parmesan cheese.
Pasta: A hearty base that soaks up the sauce and balances the richness of the chicken.
For this recipe, we’ll be pairing the chicken with spaghetti, which holds the sauce beautifully and gives the dish an authentic Italian feel.
Ingredients
To make this recipe at home, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded thin)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for frying
For the Pasta & Sauce:
12 oz spaghetti
3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
ÂĽ cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Directions
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect plate of chicken parmesan pasta:
01. Prepare the chicken
Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Coat in flour, dip in eggs, then cover with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan.
Heat oil in a pan. Fry chicken until golden and cooked (about 4–5 minutes each side).
02. Cook the spaghetti
Boil water with salt.
Cook spaghetti until just soft (al dente).
Drain and mix with a little olive oil so it doesn’t stick.
03. Make the sauce
Warm marinara sauce in a pan.
Add cooked spaghetti and mix well.
04. Put it together
Place spaghetti with sauce on a plate.
Put chicken on top.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan.
Put under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
05. Serve
Add fresh basil or parsley if you like.
Eat hot with garlic bread or salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Pound chicken evenly for quick and even cooking.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Upgrade your marinara sauce by adding garlic, onion, or a splash of red wine.
Make it ahead by cooking the chicken and sauce earlier, then reheating and assembling before serving.
Variations to Try
Chicken parmesan pasta is versatile, and you can easily adapt it:
Baked Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole – Layer spaghetti, chicken, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish, then bake until golden.
Grilled Version – Skip the breading and grill the chicken for a lighter twist.
Spicy Style – Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara for extra heat.
Gluten-Free – Substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Nutrition Facts
*Per serving
- Calories620 kcal
- Protein42 g
- Carbohydrates58 g
- Fat22 g
- Saturated Fat8 g
- Cholesterol120 mg
- Sodium820 mg
- Fiber4 g
- Sugar8 g
FAQ's on Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Q1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes. Bake breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Q2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. While spaghetti is classic, penne, rigatoni, or linguine also work beautifully.
Q3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Chicken parmesan pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving a hearty, Italian-inspired meal that feels both special and approachable. Crispy chicken, rich marinara, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together to create a comforting dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Now it’s your turn! 🍝✨
Have you tried making chicken parmesan pasta at home? Share your tips, favorite variations, or side dish pairings in the comments. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to bookmark it, share it with friends, and subscribe for more easy pasta recipes you’ll love!
