Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the mushrooms add an earthy richness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. The pasta absorbs the sauce perfectly, making each bite comforting and satisfying. It’s a hearty meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite herbs, spices, or even different vegetables. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a dish to impress, this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta will hit the spot.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips or cubes)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 2 cups mushrooms (sliced, button or cremini work best)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Cook the chicken:

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic:

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Make the creamy sauce:

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.

2. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter (if using) until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

2. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

6. Serve:

1. Garnish the pasta with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

2. Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom pasta hot, with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian dish.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce for a little heat.

• Herb variations: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil would make a great addition to the sauce. Just add the herbs while the sauce simmers to infuse them into the dish.

• Add cheese: For a richer sauce, you can stir in additional cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Gouda for extra flavor and creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like turkey, or even shrimp. If using shrimp, cook them until pink and add them to the sauce in the last few minutes of simmering.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Simply reheat the sauce and add the cooked chicken and pasta just before serving.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to check that the chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

4. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine would be a great addition to the sauce. Just add it along with the chicken broth and allow it to reduce before adding the cream.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute milk for a lighter version of the sauce, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. To maintain the richness, you can add a little extra butter or use half-and-half.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream alternative, like coconut cream, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

7. How do I keep the chicken tender?

To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Sear it until golden brown on the outside but ensure it’s cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C).

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

9. Can I use other vegetables in this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, peas, or zucchini to the dish. Just sauté them with the mushrooms or add them to the sauce as it simmers.

10. Can I make this recipe with store-bought pasta sauce?

While store-bought pasta sauce can be convenient, making the sauce from scratch as directed in the recipe will give you a much richer, creamier, and fresher flavor. However, you can use a cream-based jarred sauce in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking for a creamy pasta dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Pair it with a salad or some garlic bread for a complete, indulgent meal that everyone will love!

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