If you’ve ever craved a dish that combines crispy, flavorful chicken with a rich, velvety sauce hugging every strand of pasta, then this Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe was made just for you. This recipe brings together tender parmesan-crusted chicken and a luxuriously creamy parmesan garlic sauce, delivering a perfect balance of Southern comfort and indulgent flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special treat, this dish is guaranteed to become a fast favorite whenever you crave that comforting, hearty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board on a white marbled surface. On the cutting board, there are several pieces of golden brown fried chicken, sliced into strips arranged loosely across the board. The chicken has a crunchy texture with visible breadcrumbs. At the top right corner of the board, there is a pile of small, white chopped garlic pieces. Next to the garlic, a large knife with a silver blade and a wooden handle rests on the board, having some crumbs on the blade. The whole setting creates a rustic look with the wooden textures and warm tones. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, from building texture and flavor to adding that signature Southern touch. The components are simple and accessible but come together beautifully to create a dish that tastes anything but ordinary.

Organic chicken breast (2 lbs): The star protein, tender and perfect for crispy crusting.
On Everything All-Purpose Blend (4 teaspoons, divided): Adds a savory, herby punch to the chicken and sauce.
Smoked paprika (2 teaspoons, divided): Gives a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors.
Large eggs (2, beaten): Acts as the perfect binder for the breading.
Almond milk (¼ cup) or your preferred milk: Keeps the coating moist and can be swapped for dairy-free options.
Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy depth that brightens the crust.
Organic all-purpose flour (¼ cup): Creates the first dry layer in the breading process.
Cornstarch (¼ cup): Adds extra crispiness and crunch.
Crushed organic cornflakes (2 cups): The secret to a perfectly crispy, golden crust.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (1 cup for breading, plus 1 cup for sauce): Brings rich, nutty cheesiness throughout the dish.
Ribbon-shaped pasta – bucatini recommended (16 oz): Holds sauce beautifully and adds texture.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Forms the luscious base of the sauce.
Minced garlic cloves (5): Fills the dish with unmistakable aroma and warmth.
Heavy cream (1½ cups): Gives the sauce that dreamy, silky consistency.
Chicken stock or reserved pasta water (½ cup): Adds depth and helps balance the creaminess.
Cajun seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and Southern flair.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Layers in extra garlicky goodness.

How to Make Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper topped by a wire rack. This setup helps the chicken crisp beautifully on all sides. Toss the chicken breasts with half of the seasoning ingredients—your all-purpose blend, smoked paprika, and sea salt—and let them marinate for at least 5 to 10 minutes to soak in those flavors, or overnight if you want to plan ahead.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations

Whisk together eggs, almond milk, and Dijon mustard in one bowl — this mix ensures the breading sticks perfectly to the chicken. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch to form the initial dry layer, which helps create that ideal crispy texture. In another bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes, parmesan, and the remaining seasoning for a crunchy, cheesy coating that will bake to golden perfection.

Step 3: Bread and Bake the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, shaking off any excess, and finally coat generously with the cornflake and parmesan blend. Place each piece spaced apart on the wire rack, lightly brush with olive oil or spray with cooking spray, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. Let the chicken cool slightly before slicing or chopping—it’s about to get sauced, so you want those crispy bits locked in!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken bakes, boil your ribbon-shaped pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Remember to save about ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; this liquid will be a game-changer for smoothing out the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce

In a skillet set over medium-high heat, melt butter and add minced garlic, sautéing just until it releases its aromatic magic. Stir in the cajun seasoning and garlic powder, giving the sauce a gentle spicy kick that’s classic Southern flavor. Lower the heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream and chicken stock or pasta water, letting the sauce gently simmer and thicken. Finally, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy—this sauce truly brings everything together.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Toss the drained pasta in the sauce until it’s luxuriously coated. Fold in slices or chunks of the crispy parmesan chicken so every bite has that perfect balance of tender meat and creamy pasta. Serve it immediately for maximum flavor and texture.

How to Serve Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white speckled plate holds a serving of long, thick spaghetti noodles tossed with small pieces of golden brown fried chicken scattered across the top, sprinkled with grated white cheese and finely chopped green herbs. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with bits of green herbs around it. To the sides of the plate, there is a bronze-colored knife on the left and a bronze-colored fork on the right resting on the plate’s edge. In the top left, there is a glass with an orange drink and ice cubes, and at the top right, a white bowl filled with grated cheese. The scene has a warm and casual feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Extra parmesan cheese sprinkled on top takes this dish over the edge in cheesiness, while freshly chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness to balance the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a wonderful counterpart, providing a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans also make excellent sides to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with slices of the crispy chicken artfully fanned on top. Drizzle a little extra sauce and garnish with parmesan and herbs. To impress guests, add a lemon wedge for a touch of bright acidity that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and pasta together helps the flavors meld even more, though the chicken will soften slightly after sitting.

Freezing

This Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe freezes well in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a lifesaver to have this delicious meal ready to reheat on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken stock to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent separation and ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bucatini is recommended for its texture, other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti will work wonderfully. Just choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce well.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to use gluten-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs. The texture and taste remain just as delicious.

Can I substitute dairy ingredients to make it dairy-free?

Definitely. Use dairy-free alternatives like plant-based heavy cream and vegan parmesan cheese to keep the dish creamy without dairy. Almond milk or other plant milks in the egg wash work perfectly as well.

How do I get the chicken extra crispy without frying?

Baking on a wire rack inside the oven lets heat circulate all around the chicken pieces, ensuring crispiness without deep frying. Brushing a light layer of oil helps, too.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken the night before and even prepare the breading bowls in advance. You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, then just reheat and toss with freshly made sauce when ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its crispy, flavorful chicken combined with the silky, cheesy sauce over tender pasta, it strikes the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent. I can’t wait for you to try making it and enjoy every delicious bite with your loved ones!