🧄 Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Penne
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken over Roasted Broccoli Pasta
✨ Description
Golden, crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken sits atop creamy garlic penne pasta tossed with roasted broccoli. This dish is indulgent yet balanced—crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (halved into cutlets)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Roasted Broccoli
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pasta water (as needed)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Roast the Broccoli
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Roast for 15–20 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Boil penne in salted water until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip chicken in beaten egg, then coat in Parmesan mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan and cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Rest, then slice.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in cream and simmer gently.
- Stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
- Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Combine
- Toss pasta with sauce and roasted broccoli.
- Plate pasta and top with sliced crispy chicken.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad
- Add chili flakes for a little heat
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use grilled chicken for a lighter version
- Swap broccoli with spinach or mushrooms
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
- Use milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce (less rich)
❓ Q & A
Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Let it rest on a wire rack after cooking and add it just before serving.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes—bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
You can prep everything, but combine just before serving for best texture.
Q: Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild—great for family meals.
