Southern Style Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• Chicken: 1 pound cutlets or tenders, breaded with Panko and parmesan.
• Pasta: 1 pound short cut pasta.
• Vegetables: 1 medium onion, 2 bell peppers, 3 cloves garlic.
• Seasonings: 3-4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sauce: 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream or canned coconut milk, 2 ounces cream cheese.
• Finish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, grated parmesan.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Coat chicken in a mix of Panko and parmesan. Press crumbs in firmly.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic in olive oil until soft.
   • Add Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Pour in milk and cream, add cream cheese, and whisk until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
4. Cook the Chicken: Pan-fry chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Slice into strips.
5. Finish the Dish:
   • Stir parmesan into the sauce, then toss in cooked pasta.
   • Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
   • Serve pasta topped with sliced chicken.

Tips

• For Crispy Chicken: Make sure to press the Panko mixture firmly onto the chicken.
• For a Creamier Sauce: Use heavy cream instead of coconut milk.
• Adjust Spice: Modify the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.