If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe brings everything you want in one delightful package. Imagine tender chicken and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta for a comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. This recipe captures the essence of cozy home cooking with just enough sophistication to impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe plays an essential role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the juicy chicken to the fragrant garlic and creamy Parmesan, each element works together to create a harmonious and irresistible dish.
- Chicken breasts (cubed): Tender protein that forms the hearty base of the meal.
- Sliced mushrooms (1 cup): Adds an earthy richness and meaty texture.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth and depth.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to the dish’s irresistible creamy, silky sauce.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Boosts savory flavors and keeps the sauce light.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Delivers salty, nutty richness and thickens the sauce.
- Pasta – spaghetti or linguine (8 oz): The vehicle that carries the creamy sauce and tender ingredients.
- Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme: Essential seasonings that elevate and balance every bite.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 7 to 8 minutes, allowing the outside to brown beautifully while ensuring the inside cooks through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside. This step locks in juicy flavor and creates a lovely golden crust for texture contrast later on.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms have softened and taken on a golden color, and the garlic releases its irresistible aroma. This step layers the dish with deep, savory notes that blend perfectly with the chicken.
Step 3: Simmer Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes. This simmer infuses extra flavor into the base of the sauce and helps create a luscious consistency.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Slowly add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. The cream transforms the broth and sautéed ingredients into a rich, silky sauce that’s the heart and soul of this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce over 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds a nutty, tangy kick that deepens the sauce’s flavor and gives it that perfect creamy texture you’re craving.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce is thickening, cook the pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente. Drain it well and set aside. The pasta will act like a sponge to soak up all the wonderful sauce flavors.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything gently to coat each strand and bite with the creamy mushroom sauce. Finish with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to taste, then plate it up immediately for a comforting feast that dazzles every time.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and vibrant touch, scatter freshly chopped parsley or more thyme over the top. A little extra grated Parmesan adds elegance and a luscious cheesy punch that’s hard to resist. These simple garnishes bring brightness and a touch of color to the creamy plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with light sides that balance the richness. A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus with a squeeze of fresh lemon complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Garlic bread or crusty baguettes are also fantastic for mopping up every last silky drop.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe in rustic bowls for a cozy, family-style vibe or plate it elegantly with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for dinner guests. For a playful twist, twirl the pasta into neat nests on each plate and top with a sprig of thyme—presentation that looks as delicious as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy chicken and mushroom pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen, making it even more delicious the next day. Just keep the pasta and sauce together for best results.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, but keep in mind that the cream sauce might slightly separate upon thawing. Store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up. This way, the dish retains its creamy charm and avoids drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are great choices, feel free to use penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
To lighten it up, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a lighter cream alternative. Just be mindful the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast. The flavor will be different but still delicious and creamy.
What mushrooms work best for this dish?
Button mushrooms or cremini are perfect for their mild flavor and texture. For a more intense mushroom flavor, try shiitake or portobello—they add earthiness without overpowering the sauce.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cook the chicken over medium heat, avoiding high temperatures that dry it out. Also, cutting into uniform bite-sized pieces helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner in my kitchen and yours. It’s simple in preparation yet incredibly satisfying in flavor and texture, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I encourage you to dive in and enjoy this cozy, creamy delight that’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
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Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and comforting creamy chicken and mushroom pasta recipe that combines tender sautéed chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish makes a satisfying weeknight dinner for four.
Ingredients
Chicken and Mushrooms
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish and seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and fragrant.
- Simmer Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and meld flavors.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is thickening, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Season with fresh thyme, additional salt, and pepper as needed. Serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be thinner.
- You can use any long pasta like fettuccine or linguine if preferred.
- Add a handful of spinach or peas for extra color and nutrition if desired.
- To save time, you can cook the pasta while preparing the sauce to have everything ready simultaneously.
