Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting, irresistible dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe. It perfectly balances tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce that hits all the right notes of savory and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests without fuss, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable meal that your whole family will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward mastering this dish. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, richness, and texture, ensuring every bite dazzles your taste buds without needing fuss or fancy steps.
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked properly.
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti): Your choice here lets you customize texture and presentation, all absorbing that creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Brings an earthy depth and satisfying bite that complements the creaminess wonderfully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant punch that elevates every other flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Key to creating that rich, silky sauce that coats every ingredient flawlessly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps build the sauce without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish and helps thicken the sauce to creamy perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A fresh, vibrant touch for garnish and subtle herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture; this means it has a slight bite but is still tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside — this will be tossed with the creamy sauce later to soak up all those amazing flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then season your boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy, then slice it thinly for a perfect bite every time.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add your sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have developed a lovely golden color. This step builds a deep, savory foundation that makes this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe so comforting and flavorful.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Use your spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan — these bits are pure flavor gold and will enrich your sauce wonderfully. Let the broth reduce slightly to concentrate those tastes before moving on.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Now stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, gently mixing as the sauce thickens over 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll see the sauce transform into a silky, indulgent coating for your pasta and chicken — it’s the signature element that elevates this recipe from simple to spectacular.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add your cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with your creamy mushroom sauce. Toss everything together carefully so each strand and piece is evenly coated with that decadent sauce. This step brings all the components together for a harmonious bite every time.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give the dish a final taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed — seasoning is key to unlock the full flavor potential. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, adding a pop of green freshness to brighten up the creamy indulgence.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that adds not only color but a subtle herbaceous layer. You can also sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for an irresistible cheesy touch that melts right into the sauce as you eat.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes an excellent side, perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate the pasta neatly twirled into nests and top with extra sliced mushrooms and parsley. Serving it in shallow bowls enhances the comfort-food vibe and helps your guests dive into the sauce more easily. For gatherings, consider plating family-style in a large pasta bowl so everyone can serve themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick reheats throughout the week.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta isn’t always ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze the chicken and mushroom sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of chicken broth or cream as needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating also works but do so in short bursts to avoid warming unevenly or drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even farfalle work beautifully here. The key is that your chosen pasta holds onto the creamy sauce well, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce richness. Just be mindful that the sauce may be less thick and indulgent but still delicious.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Just add it when combining the pasta and sauce to warm through without overcooking.
How do I avoid the mushrooms getting soggy?
Cook mushrooms over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan, so they brown nicely instead of steaming. This also intensifies their flavor for your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes make fantastic additions that add color and enhance the nutritional profile without overpowering the creamy, savory sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make over and over once you taste it. Its perfect balance of rich sauce, tender chicken, and hearty mushrooms comes together with ease, creating a meal that feels special without hours of work. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll be excited to share with family and friends again and again!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and comforting creamy chicken and mushroom pasta dish that combines tender pan-seared chicken breasts with sautéed mushrooms in a luscious Parmesan and heavy cream sauce, tossed with your choice of pasta for a satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan, 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, releasing their flavors.
- Deglaze with chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the skillet to infuse the sauce with extra flavor.
- Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Season and garnish: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Parmesan cheese adds salty depth but can be omitted or replaced with a vegan alternative for dietary preferences.
- Cooking times for chicken may vary depending on thickness; ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Fresh parsley adds bright flavor and color but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
