Introduction

This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender, crispy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta made of farfalle (bow tie) noodles coated in a light orange sauce with visible small pieces of red and yellow vegetables, topped with three pieces of golden-brown breaded chicken cutlets sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and grated cheese, with a vintage silver fork resting on the bowl edge. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth and a cup containing red pepper flakes nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound chicken cutlets or tenders
1 cup Panko
1 1/2 cups grated parmesan
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound short cut pasta
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
3-4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk
2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the Panko and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan. Dredge both sides of the chicken in the mixture, pressing firmly to help the crumbs adhere. Place the coated chicken on a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the bell peppers and garlic, cooking another 5 minutes until peppers are tender.
Step 4: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the milk and cream. Add the cream cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth. Let it simmer gently for 5-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: In a separate skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden and cooked through, another 3-4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and season with salt. Slice into thin strips.
Step 6: Stir the remaining parmesan into the sauce. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and cook for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Step 7: Divide the creamy pasta between plates and top with the sliced chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, use canned coconut milk and omit the parmesan, or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies and flavor.
Use fresh parsley for a bright finish, or swap with basil for a different herbaceous note.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess, or microwave in short intervals stirring in between to prevent the sauce from separating.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds a dish with two main layers: the bottom layer is creamy bowtie pasta mixed with small orange and red vegetable pieces and coated in a light beige, thick sauce with visible herbs; on top, there are three golden brown breaded chicken fillets crispy on the outside, sprinkled with chopped green herbs and grated cheese. A silver fork rests on the left side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a textured beige cloth partially visible in the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any short cut pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta to adapt this dish for a gluten-free diet. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.