Tender Chicken and Mushrooms in a Creamy Pasta Sauce

This indulgent dish combines juicy, tender chicken with earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich and creamy pasta sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this meal is both comforting and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The velvety sauce coats every bite of pasta beautifully.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With protein-packed chicken and mushrooms, this dish is filling without being overly heavy.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Works with various types of pasta and can be adapted for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

1. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

5. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
2. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
3. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

6. Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Add more Parmesan or mix in mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with extra mushrooms or add spinach for a meatless meal.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, including broth and seasoning blends, are gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works well, but fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are ideal for holding the sauce.

What’s the best way to get tender chicken?

Slice the chicken thinly and cook it over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken can be used. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to warm through.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, try half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms all work well, adding great flavor and texture.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer longer, or stir in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken upon cooling. Reheat with a bit of broth or cream to restore consistency.

What sides go well with this dish?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, a splash of white wine, or fresh basil for extra depth.

Conclusion

Tender chicken and mushrooms in a creamy pasta sauce is a foolproof dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy it as-is or customize it to suit your taste!

O

Print