If you are craving a comforting yet indulgent dinner that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with a Southern twist, this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is going to be your new favorite. The rich, velvety sauce combined with perfectly seasoned chicken and tender pasta creates a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm hug from the South. Every bite is a delightful balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesy depth, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or when you want to spoil yourself with something truly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a breeze when you have simple, fresh ingredients on hand. Each item plays a crucial role in layering the taste and texture that make the dish so irresistible—from the spicy Cajun seasoning that kicks things off, to the luscious Parmesan cheese that gives the sauce its signature creamy finish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect coating of flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Adds a bold, Southern-style spice that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, locking in moisture and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Provides extra richness and helps sauté the onions to sweet perfection.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a tangy sweetness and depth once softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: The star that turns this pasta into a luxuriously creamy dish.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Lightens and balances the cream for the perfect silky sauce texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, creating that irresistible cheesy flavor and thick consistency.
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta: Your choice of pasta shape that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all elements together at the finish line.
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor on top.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning. This seasoning blend is key to achieving that authentic Southern flavor with a little kick. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning frequently until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside, saving all the flavorful juices in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. The onions give a gentle sweetness that balances the spice. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning it—this quick step adds incredible depth to the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—a careful balance to allow the sauce to thicken slowly without scorching. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is smooth and heavenly. This rich, creamy sauce is what truly defines the Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now, add the cooked pasta and the seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that each pasta strand is luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken warms through and the flavors meld beautifully. After a taste test, season with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the fresh garnishes! Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and a crisp, fresh taste that complements the richness of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe perfectly. They add that little something extra to make your dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs perfectly with a side of warm garlic bread, which is great for mopping up any leftover sauce. A crisp green salad dressed with light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich creamy sauce and spices, creating a nicely balanced meal that everyone will appreciate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little Southern flair, serve your pasta in rustic cast iron skillets straight from the stove. Or, plate it on bright white dishes to let the creamy sauce and vibrant garnishes really pop. For a family-style feast, place a big bowl of pasta in the center of the table with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for sprinkling. Presentation should be as inviting as the flavors you’ve worked hard to build!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream sauce stays surprisingly fresh, though it may thicken a bit—just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring it back to life.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after freezing, so stirring well during reheating is essential.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a bit of chicken broth or cream helps restore the smooth, creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause uneven reheating and dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine works wonderfully, you can swap in any pasta you love—whether it’s rotini, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it al dente to hold up well when tossed in the creamy sauce.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning? Can I make my own?
Yes! Cajun seasoning is pretty easy to make at home by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the heat level to your taste for that perfect Southern kick in your pasta.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, and use less butter. Just be aware the sauce won’t be quite as thick or indulgent, but it will still carry those incredible flavors.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make fantastic additions that complement the creamy, spicy sauce while adding extra nutrients and color to your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.
How spicy is this dish from the Cajun seasoning?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate level of spice depending on the brand and amount you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with one tablespoon and increase gradually. For more kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or an extra dash of seasoning.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a comforting meal with bold, delicious flavors that come together easily and quickly. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration of Southern cooking in every creamy, cheesy forkful. I hope you have as much fun making it as you do eating it! Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Print
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender bite-sized chicken breasts seasoned with Cajun spices, sautéed to perfection, and tossed in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce with pasta. This hearty main course combines Southern American flavors with a comforting, creamy texture that makes a perfect meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (or blackened seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta, cooked and drained
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with Cajun seasoning to ensure a flavorful base.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning frequently until chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet. Sauté diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and the previously cooked chicken into the creamy sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce. Let simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving hot.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or increase the Cajun seasoning used on the chicken.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Use penne or fettuccine according to your preference; both work well for holding the creamy sauce.
