Name: Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced thin); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 8 oz mushrooms (sliced, cremini or button); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as comforting as it is crave-worthy, look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta. It’s the kind of dish that feels both elegant and heartwarming: tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and pasta all bathing in a luxuriously silky sauce. Whether you’re cooking to impress guests or simply want a family favorite you’ll revisit all year long, this bowlful delivers satisfying flavors, wonderful textures, and a touch of Italian-American flair that never fails to bring everyone around the table with smiles.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s magical about this recipe is how just a handful of everyday ingredients transform into something surprisingly rich and memorable. Each element adds its own unique touch, making this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta truly special with every bite.

Pasta (12 oz fettuccine or penne): The perfect vehicle for catching every drop of the creamy sauce—choose your favorite shape!
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and a fruity note for sautéing the chicken beautifully.
Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 pound, sliced thin): Cooks quickly and stays juicy, soaking up the sauce’s flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate each ingredient’s natural taste.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Gives the dish richness and that classic, decadent finish.
Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced cremini or button): Earthy and savory—they add a wonderful chew and umami depth.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic punch that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): A little sprinkle goes a long way for an herbal, woodsy background note.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Gives structure and flavor to the sauce, tying everything together.
Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to that plush, silky texture everyone cheers for.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Savory, nutty, and melty—don’t skip this savory finishing touch!
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Fresher, greener, and more vibrant with just a scattering on top.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente—remember, a little bite is key for the perfect texture. Before you drain, save about half a cup of that pasta water. It’s a handy secret weapon for loosening the sauce later if needed!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat your thinly sliced chicken breasts dry, then season generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, letting each piece develop a golden crust and cook through completely—this usually takes around 5 to 6 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same skillet (no need to wash away those flavorful browned bits), melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in your sliced mushrooms, spreading them out so they brown rather than steam. After about 5 to 6 minutes, the mushrooms should be deeply golden and soft. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring for another fragrant minute.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty bits. Let it simmer gently for two to three minutes—this lets the flavors deepen and reduces the liquid a tad. Now, drop the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until everything melts together into a luxuriously creamy sauce that practically begs to coat your pasta.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by your drained pasta. Toss gently to coat every strand in sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water—this trick ensures the sauce perfectly clings to every bite. Once it’s hot and glossy, you’re ready for the table!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. It adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby aroma that lifts the entire dish. A finishing flourish of extra grated Parmesan never hurts either, especially for those who can’t get enough cheese!

Side Dishes

This meal is rich and creamy, so it’s lovely with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or a pile of steamed green beans. Some toasted crusty bread on the side is always welcome to mop up the extra sauce from this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, twist the pasta into high, swirling nests on individual plates and tuck slices of chicken and mushrooms on top. Serve directly from a large skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe. For added color, scatter microgreens or a few halved cherry tomatoes along the edge of each bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but the flavors only get more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The creamy sauce may separate a bit upon thawing, but a gentle reheat and a splash of fresh cream or broth will bring it right back together.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a little splash of water or cream. Stir frequently until warmed through—this keeps the sauce silky and prevents any dryness. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but stovetop is best for texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Fettuccine and penne are traditional options, but Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta tastes fantastic with spaghetti, rigatoni, or even short shapes like shells or farfalle.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?

If you need a dairy-free version, swap the butter and heavy cream for non-dairy alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan. The result will be different but still satisfyingly creamy!

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, peas, or even a handful of roasted bell peppers fold in seamlessly during the last step, enhancing nutrition and adding pops of color to your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta.

How can I make it lighter?

For a lighter take, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also use a mix of Greek yogurt and milk, or swap in rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

No worries! Just add reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing everything together. It thins the sauce without sacrificing creaminess or flavor in your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both easy and impressive, Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a surefire star. It’s a dish everyone should have in their repertoire—simple, generous, and uplifting on the longest days. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how it brings warmth and joy to your own table!

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a rich and satisfying dinner with this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta recipe. Tender chicken slices, savory mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce come together perfectly to create a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced thin)
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 oz mushrooms (sliced, cremini or button)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, cook mushrooms, garlic, and thyme. Add chicken broth and simmer. Reduce heat, add cream and Parmesan. Stir until smooth.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to skillet, toss with pasta. Add reserved pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley.