Shredded Chicken Pasta with Fried Basil and Feta
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this luxurious Shredded Chicken Pasta with Fried Basil and Feta. This comforting dish features tender penne pasta tossed in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, enriched by shredded chicken for a protein-packed boost. The real charm comes from the unique garnishes—crispy fried basil leaves add an irresistible crunch, while crumbled feta and a hint of lemon zest provide tangy brightness. A touch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, this impressive yet easy-to-make pasta recipe is perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Serve it hot and watch it become an instant favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Penne pasta
- 2 cups Chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 4 quarts Water (for boiling pasta)
Instructions
Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fresh basil leaves in small batches and fry for 30-45 seconds or until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fried basil leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Shredded Chicken Pasta with Fried Basil and Feta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
739 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 44.0 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.4 g | 97% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 189 mg | 63% | |
| Sodium | 720 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.3 g | ||
| Protein | 47.9 g | 96% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 227 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 417 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
