Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlet over Creamy Bowtie Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic with a Touch of Elegance
Some nights just call for comfort—something warm, satisfying, and a little indulgent. This dish checks every box: golden, crispy chicken cutlets nestled on a bed of creamy bowtie pasta, tossed with tender garlic-sautéed bell peppers and just the right kick of Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Perfect for date night at home or a relaxed family dinner, this recipe brings together crispy and creamy textures in all the right ways. The bowtie pasta soaks up the rich, velvety sauce, while the chicken delivers that satisfying crunch with every bite. And let’s not forget the finishing touches—a scattering of fresh parsley, a glass of iced tea, maybe even a frozen drink for fun, and a little candlelight to set the mood.
Whether you're trying to impress or just want to treat yourself to something deliciously homemade, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Let’s dive into the step-by-step and make this comfort classic shine on your table tonight.
Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlet over Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Ingredients
For the Chicken Cutlets:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally to make 4 cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp milk or water
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Oil for pan-frying (vegetable or olive oil)
For the Creamy Bowtie Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (according to package directions). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Bread the Chicken Cutlets:
Season the chicken cutlets generously with salt and black pepper.
Set up three shallow bowls for breading the chicken:
- Bowl 1: Place the flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with 1 tbsp of milk or water.
- Bowl 3: Combine the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, then into the egg wash, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each cutlet is fully coated.
3. Fry the Chicken:
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden-brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Once cooked, transfer the cutlets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep them warm.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the pepper softens.
Stir in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for about 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally.
5. Toss the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing it gently until fully coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
To Serve:
- Plate a generous serving of the creamy bowtie pasta on each plate.
- Lay one crispy chicken cutlet on top of the pasta.
- Spoon a bit of extra sauce over the chicken to give it that glossy, slightly messy look.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- For an added touch of charm, serve with a glass of iced tea and maybe a frozen drink nearby. Add a lit candle and a small butter dish in the background to complete the cozy dinner setting.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Meal:
- Extra Crunch: If you love extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs for a lighter, airier texture.
- Make it Spicy: Add a little more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce if you prefer a spicy kick!
- Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp, fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect balance to this rich and creamy dish.
Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones and savor every crispy, creamy bite! It’s an easy way to bring a little bit of elegance and a lot of flavor to your next dinner.
