A rich, comforting pasta dish that pairs tender chicken with earthy mushrooms and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an indulgent date night. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fettuccine or spaghetti, cooked
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken, ensuring it is seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Allow them to sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning, and cook until the mushrooms are softened and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat slightly, then pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season
Gradually incorporate 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. As the cheese melts, it will create a rich and creamy texture. Taste the sauce, and if necessary, adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the pasta. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the sauce coats each piece of chicken and strand of pasta evenly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To finish, transfer the dish to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped thyme or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, savory pasta.
Variations:
- Swap chicken with tofu or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Add red chili flakes to the sauce if you enjoy a spicy kick.
- Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers make great additions to the dish.
- Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor profile.
Cooking Notes:
- Preheat the skillet before adding chicken for a good sear.
- Mushrooms should be cooked just until tender to maintain their texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water or broth can help loosen it.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh green salad and toasted garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper for added flavor.
Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente, as it will absorb some sauce during mixing.
- Time the pasta cooking to align with preparing the sauce, keeping everything warm.
- Leftovers reheat well; just add a splash of cream or broth while warming to maintain consistency.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 510
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs:
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce, storing them separately in the fridge for up to two days. Combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
2. What kind of mushrooms are best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms provide a rich, earthy flavor. For something different, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms.
3. Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Freezing is an option, but the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. To fix this, reheat gently on the stove and whisk in a splash of cream to restore its consistency.
4. Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?
Milk can be used, but the sauce will be lighter. A cornstarch slurry can help thicken it if needed.
Conclusion:
Tender Chicken & Mushrooms in a Creamy Pasta Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. The harmony of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich Parmesan sauce is a treat for your taste buds. Whether for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers every time. Try it today and savor the flavors of this cozy classic!
Print
Tender Chicken & Mushrooms in a Creamy Pasta Sauce
- Total Time: 25
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fettuccine or spaghetti, cooked
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken, ensuring it is seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Allow them to sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning, and cook until the mushrooms are softened and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat slightly, then pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season
Gradually incorporate 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. As the cheese melts, it will create a rich and creamy texture. Taste the sauce, and if necessary, adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the pasta. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the sauce coats each piece of chicken and strand of pasta evenly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To finish, transfer the dish to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped thyme or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, savory pasta.
Notes
Cooking Notes:
- Preheat the skillet before adding chicken for a good sear.
- Mushrooms should be cooked just until tender to maintain their texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water or broth can help loosen it.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
Nutrition
- Calories: 510
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 35g