Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of—decadently rich, perfectly savory, and downright comforting. Imagine tender bites of chicken nestled in silky sauce alongside golden mushrooms, all tossed with pasta that clings to every drop. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself after a long day, this dish will warm hearts and have everyone reaching for seconds. The magic of creamy chicken and mushroom pasta really lies in its ability to feel fancy, but come together effortlessly in just over half an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of humble, reliable ingredients for this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta, but each one plays a key role in crafting layers of flavor and irresistible texture. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this meal so special—and so easy to pull off any night of the week.
- Pasta (12 oz fettuccine or penne): The base of our dish. Fettuccine wraps up the sauce beautifully, while penne catches every bite of chicken and mushroom inside its tubes.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- Chicken breast (1 pound, boneless, skinless, bite-sized pieces): Juicy, protein-packed bites that make this dish hearty and satisfying.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Season liberally to maximize all the natural flavors in your protein and sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Enriches the mushrooms and forms the backbone of our luscious sauce.
- Cremini or white mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Earthy and tender, they add a lovely savory and meaty undertone.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fragranç and essential for any good, Italian-inspired pasta.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a woodsy, aromatic dimension that beautifully complements the mushrooms and chicken.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Boosts the sauce with even more savory notes and keeps everything moist.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to that irresistible creaminess, making the sauce silky and rich.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Savory, nutty, and just the right amount of salty—never skip this topping.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A pop of freshness and color to finish the plate.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your fettuccine or penne and let it cook following the package directions until it’s al dente—tender but still with a little bite. Be sure to scoop out half a cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain, then set the noodles aside and move on to the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta is working its magic, generously season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high. When hot, add in the chicken and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until every piece is golden and cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate, but don’t clean out the pan—you want every flavorful bit left behind!
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, lower the heat just a touch and melt the butter. Add in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 or 6 minutes, stirring often, until they’re delightfully browned and soft—they’ll soak up all that buttery, chicken-flavored goodness. Toss in the minced garlic and dried thyme, and let it all sizzle for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a gentle simmer, scraping up any caramelized bits from the skillet’s bottom for extra flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, and give everything a good mix. Simmer the sauce gently for 3 to 4 minutes so it begins to thicken, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melty and smooth. Don’t forget to put the chicken back in—this is where the creamy chicken and mushroom pasta magic really starts!
Step 5: Toss and Finish
Finally, return your drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so each noodle is thoroughly coated. If the sauce feels a bit thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach creamy perfection. Let it all heat through for another minute or two, then you’re ready to plate up.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Garnishes
Nothing completes creamy chicken and mushroom pasta quite like a flurry of freshly chopped parsley and a generous extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. They bring color, freshness, and a final savory flourish that makes every forkful shine.
Side Dishes
This pasta is heavenly as a one-bowl wonder, but if you want to round out your meal, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some buttery garlic bread are classic choices. Roasted asparagus or simple steamed green beans also pair beautifully, adding balance to the indulgent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy, rustic vibe, serve creamy chicken and mushroom pasta in deep bowls, letting the steam swirl up over the table. For a dinner party twist, try plating in individual shallow bowls with an extra herb garnish, or nestle into a large, family-style serving dish at the center of your table for everyone to help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the creamy chicken and mushroom pasta into an airtight container once cooled. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. For best results, allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for gentler reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your creamy chicken and mushroom pasta, transfer it to a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to restore its silky texture, and stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, pausing to stir midway for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are classic choices for creamy chicken and mushroom pasta, you can use any sturdy pasta such as rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time to suit your chosen shape.
How can I make this dish lighter?
If you’d like a lighter sauce, you can swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce will still be creamy but with a touch less richness—perfect for warm weather or lighter appetites.
Is it possible to make creamy chicken and mushroom pasta gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy the dish worry-free.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to stir in a handful of baby spinach, frozen peas, or even some sun-dried tomatoes during the final toss for a burst of color and added nutrition. This recipe is incredibly flexible and welcomes your favorite add-ins.
What’s the best way to keep the sauce from getting too thick?
The reserved pasta water is your best friend here. As you mix everything together, add splashes of the reserved water until the sauce is silky and coats the pasta—just as creamy chicken and mushroom pasta should be!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving a meal that feels both cozy and impressive, let this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta be your go-to recipe. Trust me, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to your kitchen with every bite. Give it a try the next time you want to treat yourself or your loved ones—you might soon find it becoming a beloved family tradition!
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Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, a delightful Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce. This easy-to-make pasta is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mushroom Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sear the Chicken: Season and sauté chicken until cooked; set aside.
- Prepare the Mushroom Sauce: Sauté mushrooms, garlic, and thyme, then add broth, cream, and Parmesan.
- Combine and Serve: Toss cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce together. Garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- Enhance with spinach or peas for added color and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
