If you are on the lookout for a comforting yet impressively flavorful meal, this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender, golden-crusted chicken with a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. The addition of vibrant bell peppers and a kick of Cajun seasoning creates a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and savory elements that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers both simplicity and indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients is the first step to cooking up the magic behind this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—from creating the perfect crispy chicken crust to building that luscious, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor and color.
- 1 lb chicken cutlets or tenders: Tender and quick-cooking, these form the hearty protein base of the dish.
- 1 cup Panko: Adds a crispy, golden crunch to the chicken coating for that irresistible texture contrast.
- 1 ½ cup grated Parmesan: Brings savory richness both in the chicken breading and sauce, enriching every bite.
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Perfect for frying the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, infusing a subtle fruity note.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 lb short cut pasta: The ideal vehicle to soak up all that creamy sauce.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 bell peppers, chopped: Add a burst of color and a mild sweetness to brighten the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated: Lends aromatic warmth and umami kick.
- 3-4 tsp Cajun seasoning: Delivers a zesty, spicy Southern flair that’s signature to this recipe.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For an extra layer of heat if you like it spicy.
- 2 cups milk: Creates the creamy base of the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- ½ cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk: Intensifies the sauce’s richness and smooth texture.
- 2 oz cream cheese, at room temperature: Adds silkiness and a slight tanginess to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Finishing touch that brings freshness and an appealing pop of green.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt helps season the pasta from the inside out. Cook the short cut pasta until it reaches a perfect al dente texture—meaning just tender but still with a little bite. Drain well and set aside so it doesn’t overcook while you prepare the other elements. This step ensures your pasta will perfectly complement the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next up, let’s get that chicken ready to shine. Mix Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese together for a flavorful, crispy coating. Season the chicken cutlets with kosher salt and pepper, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the Panko-Parmesan blend. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then cook the chicken until each side develops a beautiful golden brown crust. Once cooked, slice the chicken into strips so it’s easy to enjoy with the pasta. This crunchy, cheesy coat is what makes the chicken absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Make the Pasta Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and begin to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness. Add the garlic and stir it in quickly to prevent burning. Now sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some extra heat. Pour in the milk and cream, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese and allow the sauce to thicken, stirring frequently so it doesn’t stick. This sauce is where all the creamy, spicy flavors meld together, creating the heart of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the grated Parmesan to the sauce and stir until melted and well incorporated. Toss in the cooked pasta, gently mixing to coat every piece with the luscious sauce. Plate the pasta and neatly arrange the sliced crispy chicken strips on top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. This final step pulls every component together into an elegant, satisfying dish just begging to be devoured.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds color and a subtle herbaceous note to this dish. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan or even a light dusting of paprika to enhance the Southern vibes. A small drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors right before serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with crisp garden greens dressed lightly in tangy vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add texture and earthiness. For a comforting touch, serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta family-style in a large skillet or a rustic wooden bowl to encourage communal dining and sharing. For a more elegant presentation, twirl the pasta into neat nests on each plate and artfully fan the chicken strips over the top. Garnishing with microgreens or edible flowers can turn this down-home recipe into a stunning centerpiece for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. This gives you the chance to enjoy the deliciousness again without losing any of the creamy texture or flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Portion the pasta and chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some room for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce as it heats. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the sauce or toughening the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While short cut pasta is recommended for its ability to hold the sauce well, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine according to your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as per the package instructions.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream and milk?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk and use almond or oat milk for the regular milk. This keeps the sauce creamy and delicious while accommodating dairy-free diets, adding a slight twist to the flavor profile.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning brings a moderate heat with earthy and smoky notes, which complements the creamy sauce wonderfully without overwhelming the palate. You can always adjust the amount up or down depending on your heat tolerance.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can chop the vegetables and grate the Parmesan cheese a day ahead to save time. The chicken can also be breaded and kept in the fridge for a few hours before cooking, making the actual meal assembly smoother.
What makes this dish Southern Style?
The defining elements are the Cajun seasoning, the rich cream sauce, and the crispy Parmesan-coated chicken — flavors and techniques that draw their roots from Southern comfort food traditions, infusing this pasta recipe with a distinct, hearty personality.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe if you’re searching for a meal that’s both soothing and packed with vibrant flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration of comfort food, perfect for any day you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something truly special. Once you make it, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen rotation.
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Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets with a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced Parmesan sauce tossed with tender short cut pasta. The dish balances flavorful sautéed vegetables, robust spices, and a velvety sauce, making it a delicious and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken cutlets or tenders
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 1 lb short cut pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 3–4 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
- 2 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the short cut pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the chicken cutlets or tenders with kosher salt and black pepper. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the Panko-Parmesan mixture until coated evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice into strips.
- Make the Pasta Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring well. Pour in the milk and heavy cream (or coconut milk), then add the cream cheese. Stir continuously and simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat all the pasta in the creamy sauce. Arrange the sliced chicken strips on top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk and use dairy-free cream cheese.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Allow chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juiciness before slicing.
- This recipe can be made ahead by preparing the sauce and chicken separately and combining just before serving.
