Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a Southern twist, this Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is exactly what you need. Tender chicken strips, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce come together in a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and quick to make.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or even casual entertaining, offering a Southern-inspired take on classic garlic Parmesan pasta. With its bold flavors, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of spice, it’s destined to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Southern-inspired flavor: Smoked paprika and optional Cajun seasoning add a delightful kick.
• Creamy and cheesy: A perfect combination of Parmesan and cheddar makes this dish indulgent.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes for busy weeknights.
• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with vegetables or extra spices.

Ingredients Breakdown

Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

Protein & Seasoning

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for heat)

Sauce & Fat

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh if preferred)

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Southern-American
Course: Main Course

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater (for Parmesan and cheddar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside, tossing lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning (if using).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

1. Stir in Parmesan and cheddar cheeses gradually, mixing until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

1. Return the cooked penne and chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the rich, cheesy sauce.
3. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy version: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Vegetable boost: Toss in broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Cheese swap: Try using smoked cheddar or a mix of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
• Make-ahead: Cook chicken and pasta separately, then combine with sauce when ready to serve.

Flavor Profile

• Taste: Savory and garlicky, with creamy Parmesan and cheddar flavors and a subtle Southern spice.
• Texture: Tender chicken, firm pasta, and smooth, velvety sauce.
• Appearance: Golden chicken atop cheesy pasta, garnished with green parsley.

Nutritional Overview (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	680 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbs	55 g
Fat	38 g
Saturated Fat	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	720 mg
Sugar	2 g

Dietary notes: High-protein comfort food. Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened.
• Freezing: Not recommended for best texture and creaminess; freshly made is ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, penne works best, but rotini, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent alternatives.

2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it during the final step to heat through.

3. How do I make it spicier?
Increase the Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes.

4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.

5. How long can leftovers be stored?
Up to 2 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep ingredients	5–10 min
Cook pasta	10 min
Cook chicken	6–7 min
Make sauce & melt cheese	5 min
Combine and garnish	2–3 min
Total Time	30 min

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter balance.
• Serve with garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Southern Kick: Add hot sauce or extra Cajun seasoning.
2. Veggie Medley: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
3. Cheese Twist: Blend in mozzarella or smoked cheddar for a richer, gooey texture.
4. Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a variation.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breast

• Selection: Fresh, boneless, and skinless for tenderness and quick cooking.
• Tip: Cut into uniform strips to ensure even cooking and golden sear.

Parmesan & Cheddar Cheese

• Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor; shredded cheddar adds creamy richness.
• Tip: Stir in gradually to avoid clumping and achieve a smooth sauce.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Cook chicken in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding and ensure a golden crust.
• Let garlic sauté briefly to avoid bitterness.
• Simmer cream sauce gently on low heat to prevent separation.
• Toss pasta off heat after adding cheese to maintain creamy texture.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for 1–2 days.
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate. Serve fresh for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Component	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne	680	35 g	55 g	38 g	2 g

Dietary notes: Rich, high-protein, gluten-free option available.

Expanded Conclusion

This Southern Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, cheesy, and infused with bold Southern flavors, it’s a quick weeknight meal that feels indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends, this pasta dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Garnish with parsley, serve hot, and savor each bite of tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne. Once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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