Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta (Print Version)
Crispy garlic parmesan chicken bites paired with creamy rotini pasta. A satisfying, flavorful meal ready in under an hour for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Chicken Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
03 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
04 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
05 -
1/2 tsp salt
→ The Crispy Golden Coating
06 -
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
07 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
09 -
1 large egg, beaten
10 -
2 tbsp olive oil
→ Velvety Rotini Embrace
11 -
12 oz rotini pasta
12 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
13 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
14 -
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
15 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
16 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
17 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
18 -
Salt to taste
→ Fresh Accents
19 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, one with 1 large egg (beaten), and one with 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
02 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for the sauce. This ensures your Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites & Creamy Rotini comes together smoothly.
03 -
Dredge each seasoned chicken piece first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten 1 large egg, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the Panko and Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well for truly Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites.
04 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken bites in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.
05 -
In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1.5 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
06 -
Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp black pepper into the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the drained 12 oz rotini pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.
07 -
Divide the creamy rotini among four plates. Top each serving with the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites & Creamy Rotini!
# Notes:
01 -
For extra crispy chicken, you can lightly spray the breaded chicken bites with cooking spray before frying. This helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.
02 -
Store leftover chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to the pasta if it seems dry.
03 -
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier bite. If you don't have rotini, penne or fettuccine would also work wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
04 -
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans would complement this rich and satisfying meal perfectly.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Shallow bowls
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Tongs
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1180 kcal
Total Fat: 53 g
Total Carbohydrate: 86 g
Protein: 80 g