This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Tender pieces of chicken and earthy mushrooms are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese enhance the flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. This easy-to-make pasta is ideal for a family dinner or a cozy meal at home when you need something creamy and satisfying.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

• In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat.
• Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender and browned.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

• Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Cook Notes & Tips

• Pasta Choice: Use any type of pasta you like—fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti works well with this dish.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out until it’s smooth and creamy.
• Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are preferred for their deep flavor, but button mushrooms can be used as well.

Recipe Variations

• Spinach Addition: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh baby spinach just before adding the pasta to the sauce for added greens.
• Bacon Flavor: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the dish for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce to brighten up the flavors and add a bit of acidity.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? A: You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. To thicken it, you can mix 1 tablespoon of flour with the melted butter before adding the broth.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken? A: Yes, you can use leftover or rotisserie chicken. Just add it to the sauce after the mushrooms are cooked, allowing it to heat through.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta? A: While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream sauce may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, undercook the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheated.

This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms create a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!