If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly blends rich flavors and elegant presentation, this Chicken Bellagio Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture golden, crispy chicken cutlets layered with the delicate earthiness of arugula and prosciutto, all resting atop tender angel hair pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have you falling in love with Italian-American cooking all over again. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner special or impressing guests, this Chicken Bellagio Recipe never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may sound simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that define this Chicken Bellagio Recipe. Having them ready lets you whip up this masterpiece with ease.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Flattened for even cooking and tenderness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the first layer of coating to help the breading stick.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue holding the breadcrumb mixture on the chicken.
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy, herby crust.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Mixed with breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crunch.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle, savory depth into the chicken coating.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, divided: Provides richness in sautéing and sauce making.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for a golden, crispy chicken exterior without burning.
- 8 oz angel hair pasta: Delicate pasta that effortlessly soaks in the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious base of the Parmesan sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Balances the cream, adding depth and moisture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Elevates the sauce with savory umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens and freshens the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups fresh arugula: Adds a peppery bite and vibrant color contrast.
- Prosciutto slices (about 4): Salty, silky, and the perfect partner for the chicken.
- Extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish: Final touches for flavor and presentation.
How to Make Chicken Bellagio Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by flattening your chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and a tender bite every time. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder—these simple spices build a flavorful base that shines through every bite.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create a classic three-part dredging station: one bowl with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This layered coating locks in moisture and creates that irresistible golden crust we all crave in the Chicken Bellagio Recipe.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. This triple-layer approach guarantees maximum crispiness and cheesy flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
Step 5: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside. This delicate pasta will soak up the sauce beautifully.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is the heart of the Chicken Bellagio Recipe—rich, tangy, and utterly comforting.
Step 7: Combine and Plate
Toss the cooked angel hair pasta in the warm Parmesan cream sauce until every strand is coated luxuriously. On each plate, arrange a bed of the creamy pasta, top with a handful of fresh arugula for peppery freshness, add a golden chicken cutlet, and layer a slice of silky prosciutto on top. Finish with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and flavor pop.
How to Serve Chicken Bellagio Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan bring brightness and that irresistible cheesy aroma to your plate. The arugula adds a crisp, peppery note that cuts through the richness perfectly. These simple garnishes elevate the dish from delicious to memorable.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add a bit of crunch and balance. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser if you’re in the mood for something indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Chicken Bellagio Recipe family-style on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and extra herbs. You can also assemble each serving in pretty pasta bowls for an intimate, cozy meal feel. The vibrant colors of the arugula, prosciutto, and golden chicken make it picture-perfect for friends or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and pasta in airtight containers and refrigerate. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick reheats that still taste fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately to maintain the best texture. Wrap chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Pasta with sauce freezes well when stored in airtight containers but might be best reheated gently to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta to bring back creaminess. For the chicken, a quick oven warm-up helps restore its crispiness without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While angel hair pasta complements the delicate sauce perfectly, you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne for a heartier bite. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make the Chicken Bellagio Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Be sure to check that all other ingredients like broth are gluten-free as well.
Can I substitute prosciutto with another ingredient?
Definitely. Pancetta works beautifully as a substitute, offering a similar salty, savory flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try thinly sliced smoked turkey or omit it altogether.
What can I do to make the chicken extra crispy?
After pan-frying, place the chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps set the crust without drying out the chicken.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Chicken Bellagio Recipe stores well and reheats nicely, making it a fantastic option for preparing meals ahead of time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the way this Chicken Bellagio Recipe brings together crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, dreamy sauce and fresh, peppery arugula. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken Bellagio Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Chicken Bellagio is a delicious Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts served over angel hair pasta tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce, topped with fresh arugula and prosciutto slices. This hearty and flavorful meal combines crunchy textures with rich, silky sauce, making it perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Assembly and Garnish
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- Prosciutto slices (about 4)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Flatten each chicken breast to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating well.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep simmering for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Assemble the dish: Divide the creamy pasta among four plates. Top each plate with a handful of fresh arugula, a cooked breaded chicken breast, and one slice of prosciutto.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley over the top of each plate. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, you can finish cooking the breaded cutlets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes after pan-frying.
- Substitute pancetta for prosciutto if desired.
- Spinach can be used instead of arugula for a milder green topping.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Angel hair pasta is preferred for its delicate texture, but thin spaghetti can be a good alternative.
