Why Make This Recipe
Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce is a dish that combines comfort and elegance. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce makes this pasta irresistible. Plus, it’s simple to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
How to Make Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to combine everything well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. You can enjoy it in bowls or on plates, and it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top before serving.
How to Store Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
If you have leftovers, let them cool down and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pasta dish can be kept for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Tips to Make Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary for that golden color.
- You can use your favorite type of mushrooms, whether they are button, cremini, or shiitake.
- If you’d like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Variation
You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost the nutrition. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and then add the pasta just before serving.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you are looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.
3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
It’s best not to freeze the pasta, as it may become mushy. However, you can freeze the sauce and chicken separately for future meals.