Here’s a comforting and flavorful recipe for Mushroom Chicken Pasta that’s creamy, satisfying, and easy to make:
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and the onion is softened. - Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. - Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. - Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Mushroom Variations: Use shiitake or wild mushrooms for a deeper flavor.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.