This Chicken Mushroom Pasta is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal!
I love how simple it is to whip up this pasta on busy nights. Just cook the chicken, add the mushrooms, and toss it all with pasta—comfort food made easy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne for its shape and ability to hold the creamy sauce. If you don’t have penne, try rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti for a different texture.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish, but thighs would add more flavor. You can also swap with a plant-based protein or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add depth, but button mushrooms work too. For a more gourmet touch, use shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
Heavy Cream: While I prefer heavy cream for its rich taste, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can offer a different but tasty flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, it’s key to not overcook it. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; this creates a nice sear and locks in moisture.
- Cook the chicken in bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking. Check for doneness when it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes off the heat before adding to the sauce to help retain juices.
By following these tips, your Chicken Mushroom Pasta will turn out delicious and satisfying every time!
Chicken Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Mushroom Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes in total, with around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper first. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned on all sides and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they release their moisture and begin to brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, which will help the sauce slightly thicken. This creamy sauce is the star of your dish!
5. Combine Chicken and Cheese:
Now, it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing it all together so the chicken is coated in that delicious sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if you like.
6. Finish with Pasta:
Finally, add the drained pasta into the skillet. Gently toss everything together for an even distribution of the sauce, chicken, and mushrooms.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Chicken Mushroom Pasta hot and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Enjoy your cozy and delicious Chicken Mushroom Pasta! 🍝
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can swap it for other pasta types like rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms to incorporate extra nutrients and color into your dish!
