If you have a soft spot for rich, comforting meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining tender chicken strips, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious, velvety sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan, it elevates simple ingredients into a dish that’s irresistibly indulgent yet surprisingly straightforward to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this recipe delivers generous flavor and satisfying textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Fresh mushrooms add an earthy richness, chicken provides hearty protein, and the creamy sauce brings everything together in delightful harmony.
- Pasta (8 oz or 225g): Fettuccine or penne work beautifully to hold the creamy sauce on their strands or ridges.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps in cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2): Cut into strips for even cooking and tender bites throughout.
- Sliced mushrooms (2 cups): Cremini or button mushrooms lend a savory, earthy depth that complements the chicken.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a fragrant, aromatic lift to the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The star ingredient for that indulgently silky and rich sauce texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enriches every bite.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Balances the creaminess and adds a subtle savory background.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Helps sauté mushrooms to a golden brown and adds extra richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente — perfectly tender but with a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside; it will be tossed in the silky sauce just before serving to absorb all those incredible flavors.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, which takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step seals in the juices and ensures that every bite is juicy and flavorful. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add butter and toss in the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook until they are browned and tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This not only boosts the earthy flavor but also creates a lovely caramelized texture that pairs beautifully with the cream sauce.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. Garlic is that secret weapon here—it infuses the sauce with warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes. This deglazes the pan, picking up all those delicious browned bits from the chicken and mushrooms, and forms the flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. This is when the magic happens—the sauce turns silky and coats every ingredient beautifully, making this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the luscious sauce. This final step brings all the elements together for a harmonious dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve the pasta warm and watch how quickly it disappears at the table!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice for garnishing this creamy pasta, adding just the right touch of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese for those who love a cheesier bite, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is already quite rich and filling, complement it with a light salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a generous sprinkle of herbs and Parmesan on top, making each plate look inviting and restaurant-worthy. You can even add a few sautéed mushroom slices on top for an elegant finish that guests will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers of the Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it just as tasty the next day for lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Although this creamy dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to keep the texture of the chicken and pasta as intact as possible.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating and ensure the chicken stays tender and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Absolutely! While cremini or button mushrooms are recommended for their flavor and texture, shiitake, portobello, or even chanterelles can add a unique twist. Just adjust the cooking time if they’re larger or denser.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese to mimic the creaminess, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and velvety. For dairy-free alternatives, coconut cream works but will impart a different flavor.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and other ingredients remain the same, so you won’t miss a beat in flavor or texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook chicken strips until they’re no longer pink in the center and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They should be golden on the outside and juicy inside—overcooking can make them dry, so keep an eye on them!
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook and refrigerate the chicken and sautéed mushrooms ahead of time, but it’s best to combine everything with the cream sauce just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture in your Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to comfort and delight. It’s got just the right amount of richness without being heavy, and the straightforward steps make it perfect for cooks of all levels. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again as a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and comforting creamy chicken and mushroom pasta recipe that combines tender chicken strips, sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce tossed with fettuccine or penne. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later addition to the sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until browned and tender, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.
- Create Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer the sauce gently until it thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the chicken and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a fresh color and flavor boost, then serve the pasta warm immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- Cremini mushrooms can be substituted with button mushrooms or portobello slices for varied flavor.
- This dish pairs nicely with a light green salad or garlic bread.
- To reduce fat, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
