Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy Parmesan sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe holds a special place in many households, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. The blend of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a popular choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is loved for its creamy and indulgent sauce that coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken. The dish is quick and simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of Parmesan cheese and tender chicken creates a savory and satisfying flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
To prepare this Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Penne pasta
– Butter
– Garlic cloves
– Heavy cream
– Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
5. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the skillet, coating them with the creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
– Be sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will yield the best results compared to pre-grated varieties.
Variations and Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Additionally, you can add vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrients. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional penne.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing beverage option.
In conclusion, Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and savory taste.
Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy Parmesan sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is loved for its creamy and indulgent sauce that coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
-
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
-
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them back to the skillet, coating them with the creamy sauce.
-
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.