Unbelievable as it may seem, you can recreate the Cheesecake Factory’s iconic Chicken Bellagio right in your own kitchen. This dish, with its crispy chicken, creamy pasta, and vibrant pesto, is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for dinner parties or a fancy night in.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta offers a delightful contrast in textures.
- Homemade pesto adds a fresh, herby brightness that elevates the dish.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Meat mallet
- Three shallow bowls
- Large skillet
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. For extra crispiness, let them sit for 5 minutes before cooking.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in a low oven. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure each piece gets perfectly crispy.
Make the Pesto
In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare the Pasta
Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and half of the pesto, warming through over low heat. Tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Assemble the Dish
Slice the cooked chicken breasts. Serve the creamy pesto pasta on plates, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle with remaining pesto. Garnish with extra Parmesan and pine nuts for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more authentic taste, try to find high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially for the pesto. Fresh basil makes a world of difference. If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto can work in a pinch, but homemade is always better. When cooking the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Lastly, letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures it stays juicy when sliced.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pesto for extra flavor.
- Try different nuts in the pesto, like walnuts or almonds, for a unique taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning. Give it a good stir before using.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the chicken, pasta, and pesto separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispiness, and the pasta on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze the cooked chicken and pesto, the pasta may become mushy upon thawing. It’s best to cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve. The pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Summary
This Cheesecake Factory Chicken Bellagio copycat recipe brings the restaurant experience to your home kitchen. With crispy chicken, creamy pesto pasta, and fresh flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a gourmet meal any night of the week.