If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress, this chicken and mushroom creamy pasta recipe is the perfect choice. Combining tender, pan-seared chicken breasts with sautéed mushrooms in a rich, flavorful cream sauce, this dish brings together the best of both worlds—creamy indulgence and savory satisfaction. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for special occasions.

This creamy pasta recipe can be customized to suit your preferences and pantry. With simple ingredients like olive oil, butter, garlic, and chicken broth, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Serve it with buttered noodles and finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

For those curious about the benefits of some of the ingredients, olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, and mushrooms are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. You can learn more about the health benefits of mushrooms here, or explore the different types of olive oil here.

Key Ingredients Breakdown :

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients in this recipe and why they’re critical for achieving its delicious flavor:

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender protein, chicken works beautifully with the creamy sauce, adding a savory element.
• Mushrooms: These earthy vegetables, whether you choose cremini or button mushrooms, add a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce. To discover more about the variety of mushrooms, check out this guide on mushrooms.
• Olive Oil & Butter: The combination of these fats helps to sear the chicken to a golden-brown perfection and lends richness to the sauce. Learn more about cooking with unsalted butter here.
• Herbs & Spices: Dried thyme and oregano add layers of flavor, giving the dish its aromatic quality. These herbs pair well with both the chicken and mushrooms.
• Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth: The base of the creamy sauce, these two ingredients create a full-bodied and rich texture. Chicken broth is also used to deglaze the pan, incorporating the delicious browned bits left from cooking the chicken into the sauce. Learn more about the benefits of chicken broth in sauces here.
• Parmesan Cheese & Fresh Parsley: These garnishes add the perfect finishing touch to the dish, balancing the creaminess of the sauce with the sharpness of the cheese and freshness of the parsley. You can explore different Parmesan cheese options here.

If you want to experiment with other pasta varieties for this recipe, check out this comprehensive guide on pasta types to discover which shapes might work best with this creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions :

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this irresistible chicken and mushroom pasta dish.

1. Preparation of Chicken Breasts:
   Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking, as this ensures even cooking throughout.
2. Searing the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Mushrooms:
   In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to brown and release their juices, about 5 minutes. Mushrooms are known for their ability to soak up flavors, which makes this step critical for developing the dish’s deep umami notes.
4. Adding Aromatics and Herbs:
   After the mushrooms are browned, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes fragrant. The flour will help thicken the sauce later on.
5. Deglazing the Pan and Simmering the Sauce:
   Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the liquid by half, which will take about 5 minutes. Reducing the broth helps intensify the flavor while also preparing the base for the cream sauce.
6. Making the Creamy Sauce:
   Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The combination of cream and broth creates a rich, velvety texture that perfectly coats the chicken and pasta.
7. Rewarming the Chicken:
   Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy mushroom sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to warm through for a couple of minutes. The chicken will soak up the flavors of the sauce during this time, making each bite tender and juicy.
8. Serving:
   Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of buttered noodles. For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can explore more ideas for garnishes and pasta dishes on Pinterest.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken and Mushroom Pasta :

To ensure your chicken and mushroom creamy pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to consider:

• Cooking Time for Chicken: Make sure the chicken breasts are cooked just right. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so aim for a golden-brown sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer if possible; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Creamy Sauce Consistency: The key to a luscious, creamy sauce is in the reduction process. Make sure to simmer the chicken broth and heavy cream long enough to thicken the sauce, but don’t let it get too thick. If it becomes too dense, you can thin it out with a little extra broth or water.
• Balance the Herbs: Adjust the amount of thyme and oregano to your liking. If you prefer a more pronounced herbal flavor, feel free to add an extra pinch of dried herbs, or try swapping them out for fresh versions.

These tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality pasta dish every time. For more insight into perfecting your sauces at home, you can check out this guide on sauce-making techniques and how they apply to creamy dishes like this one.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations :

This recipe is highly versatile, allowing for substitutions and variations to suit different dietary preferences or simply what you have on hand.

• Meat Substitutes: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can easily swap it out with turkey or even shrimp. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with extra mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu.
• Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free option like coconut cream. Just be aware that coconut cream will add a slight coconut flavor, which might alter the overall taste of the dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free noodles and replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like rice flour or cornstarch.

These variations allow you to enjoy the dish regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. If you want to explore more pasta recipe ideas that fit your needs, this Pinterest collection offers a wealth of inspiration.

Perfect Side Dishes :

Pairing this chicken and mushroom creamy pasta with the right side dishes can elevate the meal to a whole new level. Here are some suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is the perfect side dish for soaking up the extra sauce. You can easily make it by brushing slices of baguette with garlic butter and toasting them in the oven.
• Green Salad: A simple, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Consider using a mix of fresh greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes with a lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, these sides will round out the meal without overpowering the main dish. For more side dish ideas, check out this Pinterest board filled with great pairings for pasta meals.

FAQs :

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for buttered noodles, you can easily substitute with other pasta types like penne, spaghetti, or rotini. The sauce will cling to almost any pasta shape, making it adaptable based on what you have on hand. Check out this pasta guide for inspiration.

How can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken and mushroom creamy pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free version and use rice flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour when making the sauce. This will ensure the dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

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• Author: Alexander

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced 🍄
• 1 cup chicken broth 🍗
• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 tablespoon flour 🌾
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
• 12 ounces noodles, cooked and buttered 🍝
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish 🌿
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish 🧀

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Instructions

1️⃣ Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. 🧂

2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. 🍳

3️⃣ In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they start to brown and release their juices, about 5 minutes. 🍄

4️⃣ Add flour, minced garlic, thyme, and oregano to the mushrooms. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the flour is well incorporated. 🌾🧄

5️⃣ Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer and reduce the liquid by half, about 5 minutes. 🍗

6️⃣ Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer again. Let it cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. 🥛

7️⃣ Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm it through in the creamy mushroom sauce. 🍗

8️⃣ Serve the chicken and mushroom sauce over buttered noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. 🌿🧀