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Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta

This Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta is quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, Creamy, Easy, Lemon, Parmesan, Pasta, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breasts thinly sliced into cutlets
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 12 ounces spaghetti or other thin pasta
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest fresh
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 3 tablespoons reserved pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, for breading station
  • to garnish chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Dry the chicken cutlets with paper towels and gently pound each to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.
  • Set up three shallow dishes: flour seasoned with salt and pepper; Italian breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan; melted butter.
  • Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shake off excess, dip in melted butter, then coat evenly with breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
  • Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken cutlets 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  • Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 3-4 tablespoons pasta water and drain the pasta.
  • In the same skillet, lower heat and add heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Plate the creamy pasta and top with crispy Parmesan chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Meat Tenderizer or Rolling Pin

Notes

  • Drying the chicken thoroughly before breading is essential for a crispy crust.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness and maintain creaminess.
  • Try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition.
  • You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with added cream or pasta water.