If you are craving a dish that is both comforting and packed with flavor, this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, Cajun-seasoned chicken pieces swim in a luscious blend of creamy Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmonious bite every time. This dish brings together the warmth of Southern cooking with a creamy indulgence that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make the magic happen in this dish, each adding its own essential touch for taste, texture, and that irresistible creamy richness. Gather these essentials to create an unforgettable Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s both approachable and undeniably delicious.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy bites.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Provides the bold Southern kick that flavors the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken beautifully and locking in moisture.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: Both shapes hold the sauce wonderfully and add great texture.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness when sautéing garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic that infuses depth into the cream sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The base of the creamy Parmesan sauce, providing lusciousness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce just enough while enhancing savory flavor.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce its signature sharp and nutty character.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and highlights the dish’s flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky undertone to complement the Cajun seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional): For those who love an extra kick and an exciting flavor twist.
- Chopped fresh parsley: The perfect fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the plate.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by coating your bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with the Cajun seasoning. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with that unmistakable Southern heat and flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s golden on the outside and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside—don’t worry, the magic isn’t over yet.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, letting it cook just for about a minute until fragrant and aromatic. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add the grated Parmesan cheese alongside salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, which is when the flavors start melding into that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. The al dente texture is essential as it holds up perfectly to the thick sauce. After draining the pasta, be sure to save about half a cup of the pasta water—it will come in handy shortly.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, then gently stir in the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy Parmesan sauce. If the sauce feels a bit too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency. For those who love that extra layer of heat, drizzle in the optional hot sauce and stir through. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors fully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also brings a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the rich cream sauce. Serve the dish warm and enjoy every delicious bite.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is a classic choice here, providing color and a fresh burst of flavor. For a little more texture and a nutty accent, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a glossy finish that makes the dish look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This creamy Parmesan chicken pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, bright side dishes that cut through its richness. A fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette complements the heaviness with lively acidity. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a nice crunch and color contrast without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and top with a sprig of parsley and a few shavings of Parmesan cheese. You could also dish it up in mini cast iron skillets for an inviting, rustic look. If you’re serving a crowd, keep everything warm in a casserole dish and let guests help themselves—comfort food with a welcoming vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe stores very well in the refrigerator. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce overnight, so you might want to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to refresh the texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best done before combining the pasta with the sauce. Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and then stir in freshly cooked pasta. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed and ensure the pasta stays creamy and smooth. Microwave reheating is an option but do so in short bursts to avoid drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are preferred because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, feel free to substitute with fusilli, farfalle, or even fettuccine depending on your preference.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish has a mild warmth from the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less Cajun seasoning and including the optional hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly from the classic.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Adding a bit of broth or cream when reheating will help keep it luscious and creamy.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time while still delivering plenty of delicious flavor when combined with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the comforting, rich flavors of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in warmth and makes any mealtime feel like a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this creamy, dreamy Southern-inspired classic. Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Description
A rich and flavorful Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting dish blends Southern spices with creamy textures for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Cook Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water following package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add small amounts of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Let the mixture simmer together for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors. Optionally, drizzle in hot sauce to add a spicy kick.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta dish as a garnish. Serve immediately while warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the sauce.
- You can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts for a quicker option.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred level of heat.
