You’re in for a treat with this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s creamy, crispy, and full of Cajun-inspired flavors that are sure to wow everyone at the table.

This recipe has the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and comfort, making it a go-to for weeknights or special occasions. Give this dish a try, and I promise, it’ll become a household favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture.

1 lb chicken cutlets or tenders: Lightly breaded for a crispy, golden crust.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Gives the chicken a light, crunchy coating.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a burst of cheesy goodness to the breading.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect crisp when frying the chicken.
1 tsp kosher salt: Seasons both the chicken and pasta just right.
½ tsp black pepper: A subtle kick of flavor for balance.
8 oz short-cut pasta (penne, bow-tie): Holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or yellow): Brings vibrant color and natural sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth to the dish.
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Smoky and spicy, the heart of the flavor profile.
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Extra heat for spice lovers!
1 cup milk: Forms the base of the sauce.
½ cup heavy cream (or canned coconut milk)**
Adds richness and a silky texture.
2 oz cream cheese, softened: Helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped: A refreshing garnish to brighten the flavors.

Note: This recipe yields about 4 servings.

Variations to Try

Personalize this dish with these simple tweaks to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

Make it Dairy-Free: Replace the cream and cheese with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Add More Veggies: Toss in roasted broccoli, spinach, or burst cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Turn Up the Heat: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to enjoy without worry.

Cooking Time

This recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly!

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Get these tools ready to whip up this delicious meal with ease.

Large pot: To boil your pasta perfectly.
Mixing bowls: For coating the chicken evenly.
Large skillet: To fry the chicken and prepare the creamy sauce.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping the chicken and veggies with precision.

How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

This recipe breaks down into simple steps, making it easy for anyone to master at home.

Start With the Pasta

Cook your pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to the package instructions. This takes roughly 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. A splash of olive oil can keep it from sticking.

Bread and Cook the Chicken

Prepare the breading by mixing breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a shallow bowl. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until it’s golden and crispy on both sides, about 3–4 minutes each. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté and Flavor the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the onions and bell peppers. Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the spices to toast slightly for an amplified aroma and flavor.

Make the Luxurious Sauce

Pour in the milk and cream, followed by the softened cream cheese. Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy, letting it thicken slightly. Toss in Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.

Toss the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss it in the decadent sauce, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. Simmer the mix briefly for the flavors to meld.

Assemble and Garnish

Layer crispy chicken on pasta servings and garnish generously with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick, and get ready to dig in!

Tips for Making the Recipe Even Better

From experience, these tips will bring out the best in your dish:

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying chicken. This ensures even crispiness for all pieces.
Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better and enhances the flavor.
Prep the cream cheese in advance. Softened cream cheese blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Opt for short-cut pasta. Shapes like penne or bow-tie hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Make your own Cajun seasoning. It allows you to customize the heat and flavor to your preference.

How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Presentation takes this dish to the next level. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls, layering the crispy chicken on the saucy pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a touch of Parmesan for the perfect look. Pair it with warm garlic bread and a refreshing green salad for a complete, restaurant-quality meal. A glass of chilled white wine or iced lemonade is the ideal finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what each hearty serving offers:

Calories: 505
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Follow these storage tips to keep leftovers tasting fresh:

Refrigeration

Store the pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk, and use an air fryer or oven to crisp the chicken before serving.

Freezing

Freeze the sauce-coated pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Prepare fresh chicken to maintain its crunch upon serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a must-try for so many reasons. Here’s what makes it special:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal effort.
Loaded with Flavor: Smoky, creamy, cheesy, with a hint of spice in every bite.
Highly Customizable: Tweak ingredients and spice levels to fit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will be asking for seconds.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Indulge in all the flavors of your favorite creamy pasta without leaving the house.

This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your solution for a comfort meal that impresses with taste and simplicity. Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat!