Name: Chicken Bellagio
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; All-purpose flour; Eggs; Italian-style breadcrumbs; Canola or olive oil; Spaghetti or spaghettini pasta; Pesto sauce; Heavy cream; Grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh arugula; Lemon juice; Salt and pepper

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-quality at home: Enjoy a gourmet meal without leaving your house.
Flavorful combination: The mix of crispy chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh greens is irresistible.
Versatile: Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Impressive presentation: A beautiful dish that’s sure to wow guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Italian-style breadcrumbs
Canola or olive oil
Spaghetti or spaghettini pasta
Pesto sauce
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh arugula
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine pesto and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until warmed through. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto cream sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble the dish: Place a serving of pasta on each plate. Top with a piece of crispy chicken, and a handful of arugula.
Finish and serve: Drizzle lemon juice over the arugula and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Low-carb option: Substitute spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash.
Cheese variations: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan.
Add vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the pasta.
Herb twist: Add fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works well, but homemade pesto can enhance the flavor.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Spaghetti or spaghettini are traditional choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare components in advance, but assemble just before serving for best results.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Serve immediately after cooking, and avoid covering the chicken to maintain crispiness.

Can I use a different green instead of arugula?

Yes, baby spinach or mixed greens can be substituted.

What wine pairs well with Chicken Bellagio?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish nicely.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce without cream?

You can substitute with a mixture of milk and a bit of butter, though the sauce will be less rich.

Conclusion

Chicken Bellagio is a sumptuous dish that brings together crispy chicken, creamy pesto pasta, and fresh arugula for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or trying something new, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.