Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

by

🍝 Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Description

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-style dish made with tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and pasta tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce. It’s flavorful, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The earthy mushrooms balance the creamy sauce beautifully, while the chicken adds protein and heartiness.

📝 Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

  • Salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken & Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

  • 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or cooking cream)

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

    • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

    • Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Chicken

    • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

    • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

    • Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

    • Remove from pan and set aside.

  3. Sauté Mushrooms

    • In the same pan, add butter (if using).

    • Add mushrooms and cook for 4–6 minutes until browned.

    • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Make the Cream Sauce

    • Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.

    • Add heavy cream and stir well.

    • Reduce heat to low and add Parmesan cheese.

    • Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

  5. Combine Everything

    • Return chicken to the pan.

    • Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.

    • Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

    • Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

  6. Serve

    • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

    • Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

📌 Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.

  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken—this helps it brown nicely.

  • Let mushrooms cook undisturbed for a minute to develop deep flavor.

  • Always reserve pasta water—it helps adjust sauce consistency perfectly.

🍽 Servings

  • Serves: 3–4 people

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: ~35 minutes

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 580 kcal

  • Protein: 38 g

  • Carbohydrates: 45 g

  • Fat: 28 g

  • Saturated Fat: 14 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 520 mg

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Chicken supports muscle growth and keeps you full.

  • Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, B-vitamins, and immune-boosting compounds.

  • Calcium & Healthy Fats: From cream and Parmesan for bone health.

  • Comfort Food Balance: Provides energy, protein, and essential nutrients in one meal.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little cornstarch or extra cheese to thicken.

Q: What vegetables can I add?
A: Spinach, broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes work very well.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Absolutely—add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Leave a Comment