Decadent Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Indulge in this rich and flavorful chicken and mushroom pasta dish, coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, combining tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and silky pasta for a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Here’s how you can make this mouthwatering dish:

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  (Tender and juicy chicken is the star protein of this dish.)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  (For searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms.)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  (Cremini or button mushrooms work well; their earthy flavor enriches the dish.)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  (Garlic adds depth and aroma to the creamy sauce.)
• 1 cup heavy cream
  (The base of the creamy sauce, providing richness and silkiness.)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  (For that savory, cheesy flavor that ties the sauce together.)
• 8 oz pasta
  (Fettuccine, penne, or any pasta of your choice; its texture pairs beautifully with the sauce.)
• Salt and pepper to taste
  (To season the chicken and balance the flavors of the dish.)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
  (For garnish and a pop of color, adding a fresh note to the richness of the pasta.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Make sure the water is generously salted—it’s the first opportunity to season the pasta. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.

3. Prepare the Sauce Base:

• In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out; those brown bits from the chicken add flavor!), add the sliced mushrooms.
• Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they’re golden and softened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
• Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the cream, forming a luscious, thick sauce.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

5. Combine Everything:

• Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
• If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve and Garnish:

• Divide the creamy chicken and mushroom pasta among plates or serve it family-style in the skillet.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and a vibrant finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
• Chicken Options: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic, lemon, and olive oil before cooking. Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer option.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas to the sauce for additional flavors and textures.
• Cheese Substitutes: If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
• Make Ahead: You can cook the chicken and mushrooms in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them gently in the skillet before making the sauce and adding the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This decadent pasta pairs well with:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect companion to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating at high temperatures to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and mushroom pasta is comfort food at its finest. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta create a dish that feels indulgent yet easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite!