If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort dish that feels like a warm Southern hug, look no further than this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Packed with rich flavors, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, making it a family favorite that’s both effortless and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Excellence: The combination of cream cheese, milk, and parmesan makes a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Southern Flair: With cajun seasoning and bell peppers, this dish has a heartwarming Southern kick that’s irresistible.
- Effortless Elegance: Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, this pasta is perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet crucial ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the savory chicken to the fragrant garlic, bringing you an unrivaled culinary experience.
- Chicken Cutlets or Tenders: These form the protein base of the dish, offering juicy, tender bites.
- Panko: Provides the golden, crunchy crust to the chicken, adding delightful texture.
- Grated Parmesan: An absolute essential for a depth of umami flavor in the sauce and a crispy topping for the chicken.
- Bell Peppers: Bring a burst of color and sweetness, balancing the savory elements.
- Cajun Seasoning: Adds a distinct, flavorful kick that embodies Southern cuisine.
Variations
Feel free to tweak the Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta to fit your dietary preferences and ingredient availability. It’s all about making it your own and enjoying every bite!
- Spicy Twist: Elevate the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes, tailoring the spice level to your preference.
- Vegetarian Variant: Substitute the chicken with your favorite grilled veggies, such as mushrooms or zucchini, for a delightful vegetarian take.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it reaches that perfectly al dente texture, a critical foundation for the dish. Once done, drain and set aside as you prepare the remaining components.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Combine Panko with half a cup of Parmesan in a shallow bowl. Dredge your chicken cutlets through this mixture, pressing gently to make sure every inch is coated. This ensures a deliciously crispy exterior upon cooking.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil and sauté onions until they become tender. Toss in the bell peppers and garlic, allowing them to soften as the flavors meld. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, and then pour in the milk and cream. Add the cream cheese and whisk until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce, simmering until it thickens.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat another two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet and cook the coated chicken until golden brown on both sides. Once done, transfer to a cutting board, season with salt, and slice into thin strips.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Stir the remaining Parmesan into the sauce, add the pasta, and allow everything to cook together for three to five minutes. Serve topped with sliced chicken and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Making Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Golden Crispness: When breading the chicken, ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the sauce to simmer to thicken naturally without rushing, enhancing the dish’s overall velvety texture.
- Cheese Perfection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results, as it melts more seamlessly than pre-packaged varieties.
- Customized Heat: Adjust the quantity of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to suit your desired spice level.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
Complete your dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a touch of fresh cracked black pepper. These final touches not only add a burst of color but also accentuate the creamy and cheesy flavors of the dish.
Side Dishes
A side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad works wonders to complement this rich pasta. These sides provide a delightful contrast in texture and help balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the pasta and chicken on a bed of fresh spinach for a vibrant touch. Enhancing each plate with a lemon wedge can also provide a zesty option for diners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a delicious reheat option.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze this pasta. Just make sure to store the chicken and pasta separately, if possible, to maintain the best texture when reheated. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. For the chicken, a quick bake in the oven at 350°F will bring back that delightful crispness.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While short cut pasta is traditional, you could use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options if preferred.
-
What’s the best way to make this dish spicy?
For extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce before simmering.
-
Can I replace the cream cheese?
If you’re looking to cut calories or lactose, try mascarpone or a lactose-free cream cheese alternative.
-
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite mix of roasted vegetables to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that’s both rich and effortless, like Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. I hope this recipe fills your home with warmth and your table with smiles. Give it a try, and let every bite remind you of the pleasures of simple, soulful Southern cooking. Enjoy!
Print
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines crispy breaded chicken with a rich, cheesy, and flavorful sauce infused with Cajun spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish offers a blend of Southern comfort and bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken cutlets or tenders
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb short cut pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 3–4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
- 2 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine Panko and Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken piece through the mixture, pressing to adhere firmly. Place the coated chicken on a plate and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add chopped bell peppers and garlic; cook another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in milk and cream, add cream cheese, and whisk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Cook Chicken: In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a cutting board, season with salt, and slice into thin strips.
- Combine and Finish: Stir Parmesan into the sauce, then add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or additional Cajun seasoning.
- You can substitute coconut milk with light cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.
- For a healthier option, use skinless chicken breasts and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Make sure to pound the crumbs into the chicken to ensure they stick well.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
