This decadent Chicken and Mushroom Pasta features tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a velvety cream sauce. It’s a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Origin:
Inspired by Italian comfort food, this dish marries classic flavors of chicken and mushrooms with a creamy twist that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 medium chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (e.g., cremini or button)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces (225g) fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved after cooking)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are golden and tender. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the pasta. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Do not overcook the chicken; it will remain juicy if cooked properly.
- If you prefer a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
Recommendations:
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
- For added depth, mix in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 4 servings):
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 600mg
This Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a family favorite for any night of the week!
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