Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with Silky Cream Sauce 🍝🍄🥂
Description
This Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious silky cream sauce come together in a dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving comfort food, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, tagliatelle, or penne)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Chicken & Mushrooms:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Silky Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta 1 minute less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms & Garlic
- In the same pan, melt butter and add sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté until soft and browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Silky Cream Sauce
- Lower heat to medium and pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Slice chicken and return it to the pan along with the pasta.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed for extra creaminess.
- Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich, velvety goodness!
Notes & Tips
✔ Best Pasta Choice: Fettuccine, tagliatelle, or penne hold the sauce well.
✔ Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.
✔ Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine when deglazing for more depth.
✔ Mushroom Variations: Try shiitake, portobello, or wild mushrooms for more flavor.
✔ More Protein? Add crisped bacon or shrimp for an extra indulgent twist.
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~620
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 55g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Health Benefits
✅ Protein-Packed – Chicken provides a high-protein meal.
✅ Good Fats – Olive oil and Parmesan add healthy fats.
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Mushrooms and garlic boost immune function.
✅ Customizable for Diets – Can be made lighter or keto-friendly with tweaks.
Q&A
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✔ Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
❓ Can I make it gluten-free?
✔ Use gluten-free pasta or swap for zucchini noodles.
❓ What can I serve with this dish?
✔ A side of garlic bread, a simple arugula salad, or a glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully!
❓ Can I use milk instead of cream?
✔ Yes, but mix in 1 tbsp flour to help thicken the sauce.
This Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is creamy, dreamy, and packed with comforting flavors! Try it tonight and let me know what you think. 🍝✨😋