Pasta with sauce and baked schnitzels

Delicious pasta recipe with sauce and baked schnitzels

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the flavor of pasta with the crunch of schnitzel? This recipe for pasta with sauce and baked schnitzels is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Here’s how you can turn simple ingredients into something truly special.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 package of penne pasta (or a mix of pasta, I used two types for a more appealing look)
- 1 can of pasta sauce (tomato sauce or white sauce, according to preference)
- 1 piece of chicken breast (about 400g)
- 2 pieces of eggs
- 150 grams of breadcrumbs (you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs for extra nutrients)
- 100 grams of flour
- 200 grams of cheese (grated; you can experiment with flavored cheeses)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt so that the pasta is flavored. When the water starts to boil, add the penne pasta and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes. After they are cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the schnitzels: Meanwhile, prepare the schnitzels. Cut the chicken breast into thin strips so that they cook evenly. Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each strip of chicken in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, making sure it is well coated.

3. Frying the schnitzels: In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken strips and fry them until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

4. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking. Start assembling the dish: add the cooked pasta to the dish, mixed with the pasta sauce. Arrange the schnitzel strips on top of the pasta, spreading them evenly.

5. Topping with cheese: Grate the cheese on a fine grater and sprinkle generously over the dish. You can adjust the amount of cheese according to your preferences, but a generous layer will create a delicious crust.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and starts to turn golden.

7. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm. It is delicious alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Practical tips:
- You can add various vegetables to the pasta sauce, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and add nutrients.
- Experiment with different types of pasta or sauces. For example, a pesto sauce can completely transform the dish.
- If you want a healthier version, you can opt for whole wheat or vegetable pasta.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe combines protein from the chicken breast, carbohydrates from the pasta, and calcium from the cheese, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for days when you need an energy boost.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork or turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using any type of meat you prefer.

2. What sauces can I combine with the pasta?
Tomato sauces, white sauces, or even pesto sauce are excellent for this recipe.

3. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes to the pasta sauce or season the schnitzels with cayenne pepper before frying them.

This recipe for pasta with sauce and baked schnitzels is not only simple but also extremely tasty. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it will surely impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!