Crispy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you love comfort food with a seriously crave-worthy crunch, you have to try Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta! Think: all the garlicky, buttery goodness of classic Chicken Kiev—transformed into a creamy pasta that’s ridiculously simple, ultra-satisfying, and finished with a golden, crunchy topping. This is a guaranteed family favorite that takes weeknight dinners from “just okay” to “can I have seconds, please?”

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to whip up this magical comfort meal. Each one is carefully chosen to deliver the creamiest sauce, juiciest chicken, and that iconic golden crunch that makes Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta so irresistible.

• Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: The classic combo for that beautifully rich, golden base – use real butter for flavor and silky texture.
• Chicken Breast (cut into bite size pieces): Tender and juicy, chicken breast soaks up all the garlic-herb flavor in the pan.
• Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic: Using both gives deep, aromatic flavor in every layer of the dish.
• Dried & Fresh Parsley: Dried is for seasoning the chicken and breadcrumb topping; fresh brings bursts of color and pop to the finished pasta.
• Onion: Adds sweet savoriness and helps build the sauce base.
• Salt and Pepper: To enhance and balance every flavor — season to your tastes!
• Penne Pasta (uncooked): Holds onto the luscious sauce perfectly. Feel free to substitute your favorite shape!
• Chicken Broth & Milk: They cook the pasta right in the pot, making it creamy and flavorful — no draining needed.
• Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Adds richness, nutty flavor, and silkiness to the sauce. The better the cheese, the more delicious your pasta!
• Breadcrumbs (preferably Panko): For that golden, signature crispiness that screams “Kiev!”

Variations

One of the best parts of making Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re working around allergies, embracing your favorite ingredients, or just jazzing things up, this dish is endlessly customizable.

• Swap the Protein: Try boneless thighs for extra juiciness, or use rotisserie chicken for even faster prep (just sauté it briefly with the garlic and onion before adding the liquid).
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and gluten-free panko for a celiac-friendly, hearty meal.
• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Grana Padano or pecorino work beautifully if you want to change out the Parmesan, or add a handful of grated mozzarella for extra creaminess.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta

Step 1: Sear and Season the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. While that melts, toss your bite-sized chicken breast pieces with garlic powder and dried parsley. Add them to the pan and cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink—this caramelization packs hundreds of layers of flavor into your final sauce!

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the chicken is browned, drop in the chopped onion and minced fresh garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, letting the onion soften and the whole kitchen fill with that mouthwatering garlic aroma. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Step 3: Cook Pasta in One Pot

Pour in the uncooked penne, chicken broth, and milk. Stir it all up, scraping the tasty golden bits off the bottom of your pot. Bring it to a gentle boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until your pasta is tender and the sauce is rich. If it starts looking dry, just add a splash more broth or milk.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Once the pasta is perfect, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and the chopped fresh parsley. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy and lusciously rich—the signature behind any memorable Chicken Kiev pasta.

Step 5: Make the Crispy Kiev Topping

To mimic that iconic Kiev crunch, melt a tablespoon of butter in a separate skillet, then add the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Toss until everything’s golden and toasty, smelling of pure garlic-butter heaven. This is the magic touch for real Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta flair!

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon your creamy, herb-flecked pasta into bowls, then shower each serving with a generous handful of the garlic-butter breadcrumbs. Serve immediately while everything’s piping hot and delightfully crispy on top.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even a pinch of chives adds bright color and a touch of freshness that balances the creamy, garlicky depth of your Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta. If you’re feeling extra, a little more grated Parmesan or a crack of black pepper is always welcome!

Side Dishes

This pasta sings when paired with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or simple roasted green beans or broccoli for a pop of color and freshness. Garlic bread is always a hit (hello, more garlic!), and for a special night, a glass of cold white wine completes the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls, swirling the pasta high and letting the golden breadcrumb topping shine front and center. For date night or guests, spoon into small ramekins and warm under the broiler for an extra-crispy finish. Or, for a playful twist, serve as mini portions in martini glasses at your next dinner party—Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta goes glam!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just store the pasta and the breadcrumb topping separately to maintain that irresistible crunch for next time.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked, cooled pasta (without the breadcrumbs) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and top with fresh, hot breadcrumbs just before serving for max flavor and texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat portions of pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Always add the breadcrumb topping at the end—just re-crisp it quickly in a dry skillet or the oven before sprinkling over your cozy bowl!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Crispy Chicken Kiev Pasta a spot at your dinner table—it’s comfort food at its playful, golden, garlic-buttery best! With such little effort for so much flavor, it’s destined to become your new go-to for family nights, special occasions, or whenever you need a big cozy hug in a bowl. Enjoy every bite!

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