If you are craving a dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures, this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. The tender chicken perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. It’s a straightforward yet indulgent meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and texture in this dish. From the juicy chicken to the creamy cheese, every component adds its own personality to the final masterpiece.
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: Provides tender, lean protein that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti): Choose your favorite shape to carry the creamy sauce and create a satisfying mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and mushrooms with a lovely hint of fruitiness.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthiness and a meaty texture that pairs brilliantly with chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a gentle bite to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich base that gives this dish its signature creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Enhances flavor while keeping the sauce light and well-balanced.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes and helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures the noodles are perfectly tender but still have a bit of bite, which is crucial because they will soak up the luscious sauce later on. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside so it’s ready to combine with the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper for flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. This step not only seals in the juices but also creates a delicious crust that adds texture. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing it thinly; resting keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and golden brings out their rich, savory essence while the garlic adds subtle warmth and fragrance. This layer of flavor is what transforms the dish from simple to spectacular.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and gently bring it to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those tasty browned bits left from cooking the chicken — they are flavor gold! Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken over 2 to 3 minutes. This silky sauce is the heart of the recipe, delivering that signature creaminess.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet and toss everything together until each piece is generously coated in the creamy sauce. Give it a taste, then season with extra salt and pepper if needed. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and a hint of freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a wonderful garnish that adds brightness and a beautiful contrast against the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan provides a sharp finish and enhances the dish’s indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, twirl the pasta into neat nests on each plate and place sliced chicken fanned over the top. You can also serve it family-style in a large shallow bowl with parsley sprinkled generously over everything for a cozy, inviting look that encourages sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
While freshly made is best, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid a watery sauce after thawing, consider undercooking the pasta slightly when making the dish to maintain texture upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through to avoid scorching. Microwaving works too but adding a little liquid is key to keeping the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms all work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors. Just slice them similarly and sauté as you would with button mushrooms.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or whole milk thickened with a little flour or cornstarch. Keep in mind this might slightly change the richness and texture of the sauce, but it will still be delicious.
Is it necessary to rest the chicken before slicing?
Yes, allowing the chicken to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy. Cutting immediately can cause the moisture to escape, resulting in drier chicken.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety and double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce gets too thick during cooking or reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while stirring gently. This will help maintain the perfect creamy consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe is truly a delightful dish that combines ease, comfort, and gourmet flavor into one plate. It’s versatile, satisfying, and sure to become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll love sharing this cozy, flavorful meal with your favorite people!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish featuring tender chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with your choice of pasta. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Sauce & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate rich flavor into the sauce.
- Make Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk but the sauce will be less rich.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer including penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken breasts to keep them juicy.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and a fresh herb flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and smoother melting.
