This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken over Roasted Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a crispy, garlicky Parmesan crust and served atop a bed of perfectly roasted broccoli tossed with al dente pasta in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder (mostly!) that combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and healthy ingredients for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this recipe and enjoy every forkful of cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and crispy all in one dish.
- Wholesome & Satisfying: Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs for a balanced meal.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make it perfect for busy nights.
- One-Pan Friendly: Mostly hands-off cooking keeps cleanup to a minimum.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Roasted Broccoli Pasta:
- 1 lb broccoli, cut into florets
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
2. Roast the Broccoli
- Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Finish the Chicken in the Oven
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
5. Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken bakes, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken (wipe it clean if needed), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss the roasted broccoli and cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over the creamy broccoli pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- For Weeknights: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- At Gatherings: Serve family-style on a large platter for easy sharing.
- With Extras: Top with crushed red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts, or lemon zest for added flair.
- Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta for a silky texture.
- Double the Sauce: If you love saucy dishes, double the sauce ingredients to ensure there’s plenty to go around.
- Add More Veggies: Throw in roasted cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken over Roasted Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy chicken paired with creamy, garlicky pasta and tender roasted broccoli. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is easy to make.
So grab your chicken, crank up that oven, and whip up this flavorful, wholesome dinner. One bite of this cheesy, garlicky masterpiece, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen—one comforting, delicious plate at a time!