Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Rebecca
A creamy, crispy, Cajun-inspired pasta dish featuring golden chicken, flavorful sauce, and fresh garnishes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4
Calories 505 kcal
- 1 lb chicken cutlets or tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz short-cut pasta penne, bow-tie
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 medium bell pepper diced (red or yellow)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
- 2 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup fresh parsley chopped
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying chicken.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
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Soften cream cheese in advance for a smoother sauce.
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Store pasta and chicken separately for the best texture when reheating.
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Freeze sauce-coated pasta for up to 2 months; prepare fresh chicken for best results.
Keyword Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta