Smoked Mozzarella Chicken With Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (6 ounces each)1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon pepper2/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs2 tablespoons olive oil4 thin slices smoked deli ham4 slices smoked mozzarella cheese1/2 teaspoon dried sage leaves1/2 cup prepared pestoGrated Parmesan cheese, optional

Preparation

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, pound chicken breasts with a meat mallet to 1/2-in. thickness; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place bread crumbs in a shallow bowl. Dip chicken in bread crumbs to coat both sides; shake off excess.

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 4 minutes. Turn; cook 2 minutes longer. Top with ham and mozzarella cheese; sprinkle with sage. Cook until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 165°, 1-2 minutes longer. Remove from heat.

Add pesto to pasta and toss to coat. Serve chicken with pasta. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.