There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta that hugs you like an old friend. While rummaging through my pantry one evening, I uncovered some penne and a couple of chicken breasts, and inspiration struck—Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta was born! This dish has quickly become a family favorite, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with tender chicken, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, before being tossed with al dente pasta. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible! Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the ideal antidote to those repetitive fast-food cravings. With a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll be serving up a meal that feels indulgent yet is wonderfully easy to whip up. Now, let’s dive into this creamy delight that’s sure to elevate your home-cooked dinners!
Why You'll Love This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
- The rich and creamy sauce packs a punch of flavor that is simply irresistible and will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a comforting family meal or served at casual gatherings with friends.
- With just a few ingredients, you can create a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• 8 oz penne pasta – perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and providing a hearty base for the dish.
For the Chicken
• 2 chicken breasts, diced – choose tender cuts for quick cooking and a juicy bite.
For the Creamy Sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream – adds richness and a velvety texture that makes every spoonful comforting.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – the star ingredient that delivers a savory, cheesy depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that elevates the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your plate.
• Salt and pepper to taste – enhances the flavors, ensuring your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfectly seasoned.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish – adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the dish before serving.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain carefully and set aside.
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Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, ready to sauté the chicken to golden perfection.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
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Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Watch as the liquid thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce.
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Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to mix until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to coat it evenly with the rich sauce.
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Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to your preference, enhancing the flavors of your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before digging in and savoring every bite.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this comforting dish to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy delight without worry.
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Creamy & Dreamy: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter twist while still keeping that luscious creaminess.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, vibrant vegetarian version that feels just as comforting.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken for a delightful heat that ignites the flavor!
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Extra Veggies: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers during the sautéing step for a nutritious boost and added texture.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish.
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Lemon Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice and zest before serving for a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Try mixing in different cheeses, like mozzarella or goat cheese, to create a unique flavor profile that’ll have everyone raving.
Make Ahead Options
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic choice for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights! To prep in advance, cook the penne pasta and the chicken, then refrigerate them separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and pasta in a skillet, adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create that delightful creamy sauce. To maintain quality, store everything in airtight containers to keep the pasta from drying out and the chicken juicy. Finish by tossing everything together, adjusting seasoning, and garnishing with fresh parsley for a delicious and comforting meal that feels just made!
What to Serve with Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Looking to create a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with your creamy pasta dish?
- Garlic Bread: The warm, toasted bread with buttery garlic complements the creamy sauce beautifully, perfect for dipping!
- Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and tangy dressing add a fresh element, cutting through the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie brings a wholesome crunch and balances the dish’s creaminess, enhancing its nutritional value.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon gives an elegant touch and a burst of flavor to each bite.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, refreshing your palate between each creamy mouthful.
- Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse your palate after the rich meal, this light, zesty dessert adds a refreshing finish.
Consider these pairings a journey of flavors and textures that elevate your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta to a complete dining experience!
How to Store and Freeze Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore its creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause uneven heating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cooked penne pasta for your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, always use a large pot of salted water to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- When preparing the chicken, ensure it’s diced uniformly to guarantee even cooking and avoid any undercooked pieces.
- Incorporate the garlic just until fragrant to prevent it from burning, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness to your dish.
- Remember to keep an eye on your sauce while simmering, as the heavy cream can quickly bubble over if the heat is too high.
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook quickly and remain juicy. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor; just dice them the same size for even cooking.
How can I tell if my pasta is cooked al dente?
Very! Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite but not hard. The best way to check is to taste a piece a minute or two before the package cooking time is up. It should feel slightly chewy but not raw.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes indeed! Store your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to bring back its luscious texture.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, move the container to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream as needed to revive the sauce.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Don’t worry! If your creamy sauce turns out too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk while gently stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will keep the flavors balanced and creamy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. For gluten-free guests, use gluten-free penne pasta. Always check all ingredients for allergens, especially if serving to others.
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to coat it evenly with the sauce.
- Add salt and pepper to your preference.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
