Southern-Style Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta Recipe – Easy, Comforting, and Delicious
If you’re craving a rich, comforting dinner that feels like Southern hospitality on a plate, this Southern-Style Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe. Tender golden chicken breasts are nestled in a luscious cream sauce with garlic, Parmesan, and cream cheese, then served over delicate angel hair pasta.
Ready in about 40 minutes, this recipe is easy enough for weeknights but fancy enough for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients you already have
One-skillet sauce means easy cleanup
Ultra-creamy and flavorful
Versatile – swap proteins or add veggies
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these kitchen staples and fresh ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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4 ounces cream cheese, softened
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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8 ounces angel hair pasta
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Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
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Tip: For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality chicken broth.
Equipment Needed
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Large skillet
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Tongs or spatula
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Medium saucepan (for pasta)
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Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create the creamiest Southern-style angel chicken pasta:
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2 – Brown the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3 – Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet (do not wipe it clean), add:
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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4 ounces softened cream cheese
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2 cloves minced garlic
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
Whisk continuously over medium-low heat until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy (about 3–4 minutes).
Pro Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of extra broth.
Step 4 – Return Chicken to the Skillet
Nestle the cooked chicken back into the sauce.
Spoon some sauce over the tops of the chicken breasts.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors and reheat the chicken.
Step 5 – Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil.
Add 8 ounces angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3–4 minutes).
Drain well.
Step 6 – Serve
Arrange a portion of cooked pasta on each plate.
Top with a chicken breast and generous spoonfuls of the creamy sauce.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
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A crisp green salad
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Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
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Steamed asparagus or green beans
Variations and Tips
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
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Swap Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or sliced turkey breast.
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Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor and nutrients.
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Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce Parmesan to 1/4 cup.
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Extra Creamy: Add an extra ounce of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead:
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Brown the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 1 day in advance.
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Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge.
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Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
Storage:
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute 1/2 cup sour cream for a tangier flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
I don’t recommend freezing due to the dairy sauce—it may separate. For best texture, enjoy fresh or refrigerate leftovers.
Final Thoughts
This Southern-Style Creamy Angel Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Try it tonight and taste the warm Southern-inspired goodness!