This Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a creamy, savory delight that brings together tender chicken, rich mushrooms, and a silky sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is quick to make yet full of flavor. The creaminess of the sauce pairs wonderfully with the earthiness of the mushrooms and the juicy chicken, creating a comforting meal everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is everything you want in a comforting, creamy dish. The smooth sauce is balanced with the richness of Parmesan and the freshness of parsley, making every bite irresistible. It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and it’s perfect for any occasion — from casual family dinners to impressing guests. Plus, the pasta and creamy sauce combination makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal without the hassle of complicated steps.
Ingredients
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2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
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8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
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2 cups mushrooms, sliced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked, drain it and set it aside.
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In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook them until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and soft.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes.
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Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce cook for an additional 2 minutes until it thickens.
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Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, ensuring everything is well-coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Variations
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu or additional mushrooms for a meat-free alternative.
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Different Pasta: Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni.
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Herb Variations: If you don’t have parsley, try fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, let it cook for a few extra minutes to reduce further or add a bit more Parmesan cheese to help it thicken.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. Heavy cream gives the sauce its luxurious texture.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
What can I use as a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or another hard cheese.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze the dish, pasta may become mushy upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, consider storing the sauce and pasta separately.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or peas would be great additions to this dish.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
What type of mushrooms should I use?
Cremini or white button mushrooms work well for this recipe. You can also experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use a lighter cream, like a reduced-fat version, or replace some of the cream with chicken broth to cut down on calories.
Conclusion
Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a perfect blend of creamy richness, savory flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re feeding the family or making a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Simple to make, but packed with flavor, it’s a comforting dish that’s hard to beat!
