Name: Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a heaping bowl of Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in a warm, cheesy hug, layered with tender Cajun-spiced chicken, velvety sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for good measure. Whether you’re settling in for a cozy family dinner or serving guests something extra-special, this dish brings together all the richness and soul of Southern cooking with the magic of classic Italian flavors. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my kitchen!

Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes from its simple, unfussy ingredients, each playing a key part in crafting its mouthwatering flavor and creamy texture. Here’s why you don’t want to skip a single thing!

Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound): Lean and tender, it soaks up all those Cajun flavors beautifully.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Gives the chicken that perfect golden sear while adding depth to the sauce.
Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): Brings bold, spicy Southern flair and boosts the overall flavor profile.
Yellow onion, small (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and hearty texture to the creamy sauce.
Garlic cloves, minced (3): Elevates the dish with irresistible aroma and rich, savory notes.
Chicken broth (2 cups): Builds a savory base for the sauce, marrying everything together.
Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret behind that luscious, dreamy texture we crave!
Penne pasta (8 ounces, uncooked): The perfect shape for capturing every bit of creamy sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds nutty, salty richness and melts right into the sauce.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Enhances silkiness and deepens the overall flavor.
Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a hint of smokiness—totally elevates the creaminess.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Provides a burst of color and fresh, herby finish.

How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by generously dusting your chicken strips with Cajun seasoning. Give them a gentle toss to ensure every side is coated. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. When it’s shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is just cooked through. Move the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside for later—the real magic is just getting started!

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet (no need to wipe it out; those browned bits are pure gold), add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic base lays the groundwork for that deep, Southern flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce and Cook the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine and scrape up any tasty browned bits from the pan. Add the uncooked penne pasta and bring everything to a gentle boil. Immediately reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens to creamy perfection.

Step 4: Add Cheese, Smoke, and Finish

With the sauce bubbling gently, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika. Watch as the cheese melts right in, adding a luscious, nutty finish. Slide the cooked chicken (and any juices) back into the skillet, and toss to coat every morsel in that creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed—that’s the Southern way!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

When everything’s hot and happy, sprinkle with plenty of fresh chopped parsley. Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, while the sauce is creamy and the chicken is tender. Gather everyone around and dig in!

How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only brightens up the plate but also adds a fresh, herby kick that cuts through the creaminess. If you love a little extra cheese (who doesn’t?), a final dusting of grated Parmesan will make this dish feel even more decadent.

Side Dishes

Pair your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with crisp garlic bread or warm, pillowy rolls to soak up every drop of sauce. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings just the right crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce on top and a few larger chicken strips draped artistically over the noodles. Or, pile it high on a family-style platter, garnish with herbs, and let everyone help themselves the Southern way. You can even spoon it into ramekins for a cozy, individualized presentation at your next dinner party!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), transfer the cooled Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a fantastic meal prep option for easy weekday lunches.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. For best results, freeze without the garnishes and fresh parsley. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just keep in mind that creamy sauces may thicken, but a splash of milk or broth during reheating will bring everything right back to life.

Reheating

To reheat, simply add your pasta to a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth, cream, or even water. Stir gently until it’s warmed through and the sauce regains its silky texture. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and use medium power, stirring every minute or so.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While penne does a great job of holding that creamy sauce, rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle are fantastic alternatives. The key is to use a shape that catches all the goodies.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can swap in half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, although the sauce may be less thick. If you want to keep all the richness, a spoonful of cream cheese does wonders.

How spicy is this dish with Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning adds a gentle kick rather than fiery heat, but every brand is a bit different. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference, or use a milder homemade blend if needed.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, baby spinach, or even chopped tomatoes make great additions, adding both color and lots of Southern garden-fresh goodness to your creamy Parmesan chicken pasta.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Give it a good stir and you’re back to creamy pasta perfection!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something soul-warming and deeply satisfying, you can’t go wrong with Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that turns any night into a cozy celebration. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent spot in your rotation!

Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. A one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with a hint of Cajun spice.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

For the Pasta:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with Cajun seasoning. Cook in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, sauté onion in butter until soft. Add garlic, then pour in chicken broth, cream, and pasta. Simmer until pasta is tender.
Finish the Dish: Stir in Parmesan and smoked paprika. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving hot.