Print

Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 1 review

Indulge in Southern comfort with this creamy, rich Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta. Featuring tender, oven-baked, crispy parmesan-crusted chicken breasts paired with perfectly cooked ribbon-shaped pasta in a luscious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. This hearty dish delivers comforting flavors in every bite, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are available.

Ingredients

Crispy Parmesan Chicken

  • 2 lbs organic chicken breast
  • 4 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend, divided
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ¼ cup almond milk (or whole milk / preferred plant milk)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup organic all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 2 cups organic cornflakes, finely crushed (or breadcrumbs)
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Pasta & Sauce

  • 1 (16-oz) package ribbon-shaped pasta (bucatini recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken stock or reserved pasta water
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation for crispy baking. In a bowl, toss chicken breasts with 2 teaspoons of the all-purpose seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and sea salt until well coated. Marinate for 5–10 minutes or preferably overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
  2. Prepare Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, almond milk (or your choice of milk), and Dijon mustard to create a flavorful dip for the chicken coating process.
  3. Make the Breading: Combine the crushed cornflakes, freshly grated parmesan, the remaining 2 teaspoons of all-purpose seasoning, and remaining 1 teaspoon smoked paprika in a separate bowl. On a plate or shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch together.
  4. Dredge Chicken: Coat each chicken breast by first dredging in the flour-cornstarch mixture, then dipping into the egg mixture, shaking off excess, and finally pressing thoroughly into the cornflake-parmesan coating until completely covered.
  5. Bake Chicken: Place coated chicken breasts spaced about an inch apart on the prepared wire rack. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and let cool slightly before slicing or chopping.
  6. Cook Pasta: Boil the ribbon-shaped pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
  7. Prepare Parmesan Garlic Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the cajun seasoning and garlic powder to infuse the butter with spices.
  8. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock (or reserved pasta water), stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 1–2 minutes to combine flavors.
  9. Add Parmesan and Thicken: Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese, whisking until fully melted and the sauce thickens, around 2–3 minutes.
  10. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly until evenly coated with the creamy parmesan sauce. Fold in the sliced crispy parmesan chicken pieces gently to combine.
  11. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your warm, comforting Southern Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta!

Notes

  • For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
  • Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with dairy-free margarine; use dairy-free parmesan cheese alternatives.
  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but is optional.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • Reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
  • Use a wire rack for baking the chicken to maintain crispiness by allowing air circulation.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/southern-creamy-parmesan-garlic-chicken-pasta-recipe/