Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta | CookFlash

Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta has quickly become one of my family’s favorite weeknight meals. The creamy sauce, the perfectly tender chicken, and the earthy mushrooms create a delightful flavor combination that is rich, savory, and comforting. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for the family or a dinner party with friends, this dish never fails to impress. The best part is that it’s quick to make and doesn’t require any complex ingredients, making it an ideal choice when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
  • Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme for seasoning

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    Begin by seasoning the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and begin to release their moisture. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Next, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once the cream is boiling, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce. Let the sauce cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
  4. Cook the Pasta:
    While the sauce is thickening, cook your pasta (spaghetti or linguine works great) according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
  5. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce:
    Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken and pasta in the creamy mixture. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Season and Serve:
    Season the pasta with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 560 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 31g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve
This dish is best served hot with a few sides to balance out the rich, creamy pasta. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of the pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or even Brussels sprouts make for great veggie sides.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creaminess of the pasta perfectly.
  • Topping: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or some fresh cracked black pepper on top for added flavor.

Additional Tips

  1. Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be substituted for the breasts. They add a bit more flavor and moisture to the dish.
  2. Add Spinach: For a pop of color and nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach when you add the cream. It wilts nicely into the sauce and adds freshness.
  3. Adjust the Creaminess: If you like your pasta a bit lighter, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce will be less rich.
  4. Spice it Up: For some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
  5. Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free alternative, such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti.

Recipe Variations

  • Mushroom Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can replace them with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even peas.
  • Cream Cheese: For a thicker sauce, you can add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce in addition to the Parmesan. This gives the sauce an extra velvety texture.
  • Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer a different protein, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even ground chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
  • Herb Substitutes: In place of thyme, you could use basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Bacon: For an even richer flavor, add cooked bacon bits to the dish before serving. This adds a smoky, savory element to the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and mushroom pasta can be served as the main dish or as part of a larger meal. Here are some ideas for serving:

  • Family Dinner: Perfect as a comforting main course for a family dinner.
  • Dinner Party: This dish looks and tastes impressive, so it’s great for entertaining guests.
  • Meal Prep: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day. It reheats well and still maintains its flavor.
  • Romantic Dinner: A great dish for a cozy date night at home. The creamy sauce and savory chicken are sure to impress.

Freezing and Storage
If you have leftovers, this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta can be stored and frozen for later:

  • In the Fridge: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little bit of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.
  • In the Freezer: This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
  • Reheating: When reheating, be sure to add some liquid (like chicken broth or milk) to keep the sauce from becoming too thick or separating.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
  2. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?
    Yes, store-bought chicken broth works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just ensure it’s low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
  3. Can I use non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream?
    For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with non-dairy milk, such as almond or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich or thick.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to the pasta?
    Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, spinach, or even peas to the dish. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms.
  5. Can I use grated mozzarella instead of Parmesan?
    Yes, mozzarella can be used, though it will create a milder flavor and slightly different texture than Parmesan.
  6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    No, but you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute to make this recipe gluten-free.
  7. Can I use frozen chicken?
    While frozen chicken can be used, it will need to be thawed and cooked properly before adding it to the dish.
  8. Can I make this recipe with shrimp instead of chicken?
    Yes, you can swap the chicken for shrimp. Just cook the shrimp until they turn pink, and then continue with the recipe.
  9. Can I make this recipe spicy?
    Yes, adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give the dish a bit of heat.
  10. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne instead of linguine. The pasta shape is up to you!

Conclusion
Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it as-is or add your own personal twist with variations or toppings, it’s a versatile recipe that never disappoints. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness!

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