If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, then this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of juicy chicken nestled in a luscious, velvety sauce that’s brimming with garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and a touch of Italian herbs, all tangled up with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe brings together bold southern flavors and creamy indulgence in a way that feels both familiar and special. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, making it one of my all-time favorites to share around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe comes from simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role. These essentials build layers of flavor and texture — from the juicy chicken to the silky sauce to the al dente pasta. Here’s what you’ll gather to create this delectable dish:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of your choice: Choose a pasta that will hold the creamy sauce beautifully, like fettuccine or even rigatoni.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps brown your chicken perfectly for that irresistible flavor.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender chunks that soak up all the saucy goodness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the heart of this dish, offering a mouthwatering aroma and depth of taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the silky, dreamy texture that makes the sauce truly indulgent.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds a savory backdrop that balances the richness of the cream.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star flavor that melts into the sauce to add sharp, nutty complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties everything together perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for elevating every element in the dish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh pop of green that adds color and a gentle brightness to finish.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente—the texture should have a slight bite without being tough. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up that delicious sauce shortly.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes until browned on one side, then stir and continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 6 to 8 minutes. This golden crust adds a beautiful texture contrast to the creamy pasta.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until fragrant. Garlic releases its wonderful aroma and deep flavor here, laying the groundwork for your sauce.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing well. Bring this combination up to a gentle simmer, allowing the liquids to start reducing and thickening to build a luscious, rich base for your Parmesan sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Italian Seasoning
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly. Watch as the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture that clings to every piece of chicken and pasta. At this stage, taste and adjust with salt and pepper to suit your preference.
Step 6: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Add your cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand in the creamy sauce. The pasta will naturally soak up some of that savory goodness, making every bite utterly flavorful.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. This final touch not only gives a nice color contrast but also adds a hint of brightness that beautifully balances the rich sauce. Serve immediately for the best creaminess and warmth.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley is a classic choice, you can also sprinkle a bit of extra grated Parmesan or cracked black pepper just before serving. A few red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat. These little garnish details turn this simple dish into a feast for the eyes and the palate alike.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted asparagus complements the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, buttery garlic bread or crusty French bread is ideal for mopping up all that extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or basil on top. Layering the dish in a large serving platter garnished with edible flowers or lemon zest can wow your guests visually. Serving in rustic bowls alongside a glass of chilled white wine or iced tea elevates the whole experience effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining much of the creamy richness you love.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes cause texture changes, but you can freeze this recipe for up to one month. Freeze the pasta and sauce separately if possible, to preserve the best texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it thickens upon cooling. Stir often to keep the sauce smooth and creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and holds the creamy sauce very well, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or even linguine depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for a lighter sauce, but the texture won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Heavy cream really gives the sauce its luxurious feel.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the pasta for your favorite gluten-free version, and ensure the chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The flavors will shine just as nicely.
How many servings does this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe make?
This recipe typically serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms all make wonderful additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition. Add them during the sauce-making process for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe has a special way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or impressing friends at your next dinner, its irresistible creamy sauce and tender chicken never disappoint. I hope you love making—and eating—it as much as I do!
Print
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A rich and creamy Southern-style pasta dish featuring tender sautéed chicken and a luscious Parmesan sauce with Italian seasoning, served over fettuccine. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of your choice
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be less thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Chicken can be replaced with shrimp or cooked sausage for variation.
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best for this dish.
