If you’re craving a dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, cheesy sauce, then you absolutely need to try this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful comfort food classic that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of creamy Parmesan with the smoky warmth of Southern spices. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal fuss. The harmony between the tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy sauce tossed with pasta is simply irresistible and will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in building a rich, flavorful profile. From the fragrant garlic to the fresh bell peppers adding color and sweetness, these ingredients combine to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory aroma and depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a warm, smoky sweetness reminiscent of classic Southern cooking.
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a tender crunch once cooked.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic heightens the savory flavor and fragrance.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings a burst of color and a subtle sweetness to the plate.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and earthy undertones, balancing the dish.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that gently cooks the pasta and blends everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a decadently creamy sauce that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes sharp, nutty richness that ties the sauce to the chicken and pasta.
- 8 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta, uncooked: The perfect noodle shape to hold onto the luscious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese: Adds velvety texture and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat that wakes up the palate.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant pop of green that brightens the dish.
How to Make Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika—this gives that signature Southern flair. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until each piece is beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can build the rest of the dish without overcooking the meat.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in your finely chopped onion and sauté just until it turns soft and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds a sweet undertone that perfectly balances the spices. Next, stir in the minced garlic along with both the red and green diced bell peppers. Let them cook together for another 3 to 4 minutes, unlocking their natural sugars and deepening the overall flavor.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce and Cook the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the vegetable mixture. Then, add the uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta directly into this sauce base. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This eliminates the need for extra pots, as the pasta absorbs the flavorful broth while the sauce thickens into that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Final Spices
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated, forming a rich, silky sauce. For those who like a little kick, mix in the cayenne pepper here. Return your perfectly cooked chicken to the skillet and give everything a good stir so all the flavors meld together. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and marry the ingredients.
How to Serve Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a fantastic garnish that brightens the dish effortlessly. It adds a pop of vibrant color and a subtle herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, cheesy sauce. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for an added punch of flavor and presentation appeal.
Side Dishes
This pasta is a hearty main on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic roasted broccoli adds a fresh, crunchy element that balances the richness beautifully. For a true Southern feast, serve with buttery cornbread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, serve this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual skillet dishes or cast-iron skillets. Layer the pasta with extra cheese on top, and broil for a couple of minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust. Garnishing with a lemon wedge on the side adds a fresh zing that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta reheats beautifully and tastes just as comforting the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so be ready to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to return it to that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Be aware that the texture of the cream cheese might change slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains just as delicious.
Reheating
Gently reheat the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little bit of chicken broth or milk if the sauce feels too thick. Microwave reheating works too—just cover loosely and stir halfway through to ensure even warmth without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are recommended for their sauce-holding shapes, you can swap in farfalle, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even crispy tofu. Just sauté them until tender before adding the rest of the ingredients for a delicious meat-free twist.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
Besides the optional cayenne pepper in the recipe, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh jalapeño slices sautéed with the vegetables also bring a nice kick.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 35 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes to cook everything perfectly. It’s a quick and straightforward recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures all in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy and impress. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and make it a staple in your kitchen the way it is in mine.
