Smoked Mozzarella Chicken with Pasta

This looks yummy.  I may tweak it to add fresh sage as I have a nice looking sage plant growing in the yard.

8oz. uncooked angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2/3 C. seasoned bread crumbs
2 tbsp. olive oil
4 thin slices smoked deli ham
4 slices smoked mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp. dried sage leaves
1/2 C. prepared pesto
Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

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

Meanwhile, pound chicken breasts with a meat mallet to 1/2 inch thickness; sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Place bread crumbs in a shallow bowl.  Dip chicken breasts 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 1-2 minutes longer or until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 165 degrees.  Remove from heat.

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