Mushroom Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Cozy Dinner Delight

Creamy, comforting mushroom chicken pasta dances with rich, earthy flavors that bring warmth to every bite.

Home cooks love this easy weeknight dish that blends tender chicken and robust mushrooms in a velvety sauce.

The robust mushroom chicken pasta recipe promises a delightful culinary adventure for anyone seeking a satisfying meal.

Fragrant herbs and perfectly sautéed ingredients create a symphony of textures and tastes.

Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of protein and pasta that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

The secret lies in selecting fresh ingredients and cooking them with care and passion.

You’ll savor every single bite of this restaurant-quality meal prepared right in your own kitchen.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can substitute button mushrooms with cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms for varied flavor and texture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Opt for whole wheat pasta, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese to lower the calorie and fat content.

  • What if I don't have chicken broth?

You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water mixed with a bouillon cube for similar depth of flavor.

Chicken and Mushrooms – The Pasta You’ll Crave

  • Whip Up a Satisfying Meal: This mushroom chicken pasta delivers a hearty, restaurant-quality dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: With just one pan and basic ingredients, anyone can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms combine to make a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making family dinner a breeze.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra veggies to personalize the recipe, making it flexible for different tastes and dietary preferences.

Shopping List for Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Main Ingredients:
  • Pasta: A staple base that provides hearty texture and substance to the dish.
  • Chicken: Protein-rich cubes that add delicious savory flavor to the recipe.
  • Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful fungi that enhance the overall taste profile.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Butter: Adds rich, smooth flavor and helps create a creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and silky sauce with a velvety consistency.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, salty, and nutty depth to the sauce.
Aromatic and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential for cooking and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational aromatics that build a complex and robust flavor base.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
  • Fresh Parsley: Light, fresh herb used as a garnish to brighten the final presentation.

Directions for Chicken Pasta with Mushrooms

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook the pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection.

Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken pieces and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Create Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and begin building layers of flavor with:
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic
  • Sliced mushrooms

Sauté the ingredients until they become tender and release their delicious aromas.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety base.

Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken to the skillet.

Season with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.

Allow the mixture to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing carefully to ensure every strand is beautifully coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delectable mushroom chicken pasta.

Tips for Saucy, Flavorful Mushroom Chicken Pasta

  • Choose firm, unblemished mushrooms with smooth caps for the best flavor and texture in your pasta dish.
  • Ensure chicken cubes are dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior without steaming.
  • Stir Parmesan cheese slowly to prevent curdling and create a silky, smooth sauce with rich depth.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help thin or thicken the sauce if needed, ensuring perfect sauce coverage.
  • Chop parsley just before serving to maximize its vibrant flavor and bright green color as a final garnish.

Mushroom Chicken Pasta Variations for Dinner

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining the creamy mushroom sauce flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free experience.

Serving Chicken Mushroom Pasta Family-Style

  • Family Weeknight Feast: Serve this creamy mushroom chicken pasta as a hearty main dish with warm garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
  • Elegant Dinner Party Presentation: Plate individually on white dishes, sprinkle extra Parmesan and chopped parsley on top, and pair with a light white wine like Chardonnay to elevate the dining experience.
  • Healthy Lunch Remix: Pack leftovers in airtight containers for a delicious next-day lunch. Add extra grilled vegetables or a side of roasted broccoli to boost nutrition and keep the meal interesting.
  • Quick Meal Prep Option: Double the recipe and store extra portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 weeks, creating an easy grab-and-heat meal for busy days.

Storing Pasta Leftovers Like a Pro

  • Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the dish.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or extra cream to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently and continuously until heated evenly throughout.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Mushroom Chicken Pasta Recipe

Mushroom Chicken Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Creamy mushroom chicken pasta delivers a symphony of rich, earthy flavors dancing through tender pasta strands. Savory herbs and perfectly seared chicken elevate this comforting Italian-inspired dish you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 medium-sized chicken breast (boneless and skinless), cut into bite-sized cubes

Pasta and Vegetables:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or any pasta)
  • 1 cup (150 grams) mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasoning:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken cubes until they develop a rich golden crust, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate.
  3. Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
  4. Introduce sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the pan, creating a luxurious sauce. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Reintroduce the golden chicken to the sauce, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the ingredients to simmer and meld together for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Gently fold the reserved pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated with the rich, flavorful mixture.
  8. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant garnish and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Opt for fresh, high-quality mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for deeper, richer flavor profiles.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half to reduce calories and fat content.
  • Use zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star