If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner with all the charm and comfort of a Southern kitchen, look no further than Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Imagine tender chicken bites tossed with golden pasta in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce, all brought together with a hint of Southern spice—this dish is a little bit of magic, perfect for busy evenings or a cozy family meal. Combining classic Southern flavors with a cheesy pasta twist, it’s a recipe that feels both down-home and utterly irresistible from the first bite to the very last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple and stress-free, yet every ingredient truly shines—each one adding depth and character, whether that’s richness, creaminess, or the perfect pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own unforgettable Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
- Butter: Adds rich, Southern-style flavor and helps create a beautifully golden sear on the chicken.
- Olive oil: Ensures the chicken doesn’t stick and offers a hint of fresh, fruity undertone.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show—cutting them into bite-sized pieces means every forkful gets juicy, tender chicken.
- Seasoned salt: Rounds out the savory flavors and infuses the chicken with warmth.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle, peppery kick and balances the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic powder: Gives an extra layer of cozy, garlicky depth, complementing the fresh garlic later in the recipe.
- Paprika: Brings a touch of sweetness and a gorgeous red hue—don’t skip it for those Southern vibes!
- Fresh garlic: Elevates the sauce with aromatic intensity and classic Italian flair.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and a solid flavor base for the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that velvety, decadent sauce you’ll want to mop up with bread.
- Chicken broth: Infuses extra savory notes without making the sauce too heavy.
- Parmesan cheese: The must-have ingredient for an authentic creamy Parmesan sauce—splurge on fresh-grated if you can!
- Penne or rotini pasta: Both shapes scoop up sauce perfectly, so pick your favorite and cook it to al dente.
- Diced tomatoes (optional): For a juicy, colorful burst that freshens up the dish beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle for a pop of gentle heat if you like things a little spicy.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, green finish and a touch of elegance to the final plate.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set it aside—this way, it’s ready when the creamy action starts! Al dente pasta will hold up best when tossed with the rich sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats, season your chicken pieces with seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, turning to get those irresistible golden edges. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside (don’t worry, all the flavor in the pan stays for the next step!)
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet (no need to clean!), add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and just starting to turn translucent—about 3 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This base infuses the Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with such a comforting aroma.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, using your spoon to gently scrape up all the delicious, browned bits from the skillet—those are liquid gold! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and luscious looking. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and beautifully creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in that dreamy Parmesan sauce. For a fresh, colorful touch, stir in diced tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle with plenty of chopped fresh parsley, and serve up your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta while it’s still steaming hot. With that golden sauce glistening, it’s impossible to resist diving in right away.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
The finishing touch matters! Top your Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, a handful of fresh parsley, or even a dash of black pepper or paprika for color. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes brings subtle fire and a beautiful fleck of red—so inviting against the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This pasta is indulgent all by itself, but it pairs exceptionally well with classic Southern sides. Warm, buttery cornbread is a perfect match for soaking up the creamy sauce. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances that rich flavor, or a side of steamed green beans sprinkled with salt and pepper rounds out the meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce on top and a sprig of parsley. For family-style dinners, place the skillet right on the table for everyone to help themselves—it’s as inviting as it gets. You can also turn this dish into a baked pasta: transfer to a baking dish, top with more Parmesan, and broil for a bubbly, golden crown.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, make sure the pasta and sauce are combined to keep everything moist and flavorful—nobody likes dry chicken pasta!
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then pack it in freezer-safe containers. While the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, a gentle stir while reheating usually brings everything back together. Enjoy within two months for peak flavor and texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of extra cream or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir gently and heat just until warmed through—overheating can make the sauce break. Microwaving works too; just cover and use a lower power setting, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini are both fantastic, but you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep the pasta al dente so it holds up in the creamy sauce.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even evaporated milk for heavy cream. While the sauce won’t be quite as rich, you’ll still get plenty of creamy goodness in every bite.
What proteins can I use instead of chicken?
You can easily use shrimp, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even turkey breast. For a vegetarian version, try sauteed mushrooms or broccoli as hearty, saucy swaps.
How can I make the sauce even thicker?
If you like an ultra-thick sauce, let it simmer a little longer before adding the cheese—or mix in a teaspoon of flour while sautéing the onions for an extra boost in creaminess.
Can Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta be made ahead for a party?
Yes! Make the pasta up to a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat before serving. It’s just as delicious the next day and perfect for prepping ahead.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings the best of comfort food straight to your table—warm, rich, and overflowing with flavor. It’s a recipe sure to win over everyone who tries it, whether for a simple supper or a weekend feast. Give it a whirl and savor what just might become your new favorite pasta night tradition!
