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There’s something irresistible about a warm bowl of creamy pasta on a cozy evening. And when you pair tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a silky cream sauce with perfectly cooked pasta—oh, you’ve just created culinary magic. This dish isn’t just a favorite among pasta lovers, it’s a beloved comfort food that makes regular appearances on family dinner tables and restaurant menus alike.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to master Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce. From choosing the right ingredients and perfecting your sauce, to learning kitchen secrets that chefs use to get that restaurant-style texture at home—we’ve got it all. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced foodie, this guide will level up your creamy pasta game.
Let’s dive in!
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Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce: A Creamy Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Seared chicken strips are mixed through this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta, all cooked in one pot with garlic, mushrooms and parmesan cheese!
Ingredients
4 chicken thigh fillets boneless skinless
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt to season
1/4 teaspoon pepper to season
1 tablespoon olive oil divided
1 yellow onion medium, chopped
4 cloves garlic minced, or 1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/3 cup dry white wine or chicken stock/broth
8 ounces brown mushrooms sliced
1 quart chicken broth or stock
12 ounce evaporated milk can
1/3 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon pepper to taste
10 ounces uncooked penne pasta just over 4 cups
1 cup parmesan cheese fresh grated
1/4 cup parsley chopped
Instructions
Season chicken thighs with dried basil, salt and pepper. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear on both sides until golden brown, cooked through and no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the pot. Fry the onion and garlic until the onion becomes transparent, stirring occasionally (about 2 minutes). Pour in the white wine and allow to simmer for 5 minutes, or until beginning to reduce down.
Add the mushrooms and cook for a further 3 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Then, add the broth, milks (or cream if using), salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 15 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
Stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts through the sauce. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Slice the chicken into strips and stir through the pasta.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan, if desired
Enjoy!
Notes
Light evaporated milk was used in this recipe. You can use full fat if that’s what you have. Also, you can substitute evaporated milk with half and half, or reduced fat cream
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Key Ingredients Breakdown for Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce
Behind every crave-worthy bite of creamy chicken mushroom pasta is a lineup of humble ingredients, each playing a crucial role. Choosing the right ones is half the battle to creating that dreamy, restaurant-quality finish.
Chicken: The Lean Protein That Anchors the Dish
Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook fast, soak up flavor like a sponge, and slice beautifully over pasta. Want something juicier? Chicken thighs work too, just trim the fat.
Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken briefly in a pinch of garlic powder, olive oil, and black pepper to boost flavor fast.
Mushrooms: Earthy Depth in Every Bite
Mushrooms bring an umami bomb to the party. While button mushrooms are a common go-to, cremini or baby bella mushrooms offer more depth and a meatier texture. Slice them thick and let them brown in butter—no crowding the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sizzle.
Need help identifying types? Here’s a great guide to edible mushrooms that’ll boost your kitchen confidence.
Pasta: Penne, Cavatappi, or Fettuccine?
Shape matters! You’ll want pasta that holds onto creamy sauce. Penne, cavatappi, or fettuccine are great picks. They let every drop of that creamy garlic mushroom sauce cling to each bite. Cook it al dente, and reserve a splash of pasta water to adjust your sauce later.
The Dreamy Cream Sauce Essentials
Here’s what transforms a basic pasta into a creamy masterpiece:
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – silky and rich
- Grated Parmesan – for that salty, umami kick
- Garlic and onions – flavor depth
- Butter – because everything’s better with it
- Chicken broth – to balance the richness
Herbs & Seasoning: The Flavor Finishers
A touch of thyme or oregano elevates everything. Salt and black pepper? Always taste and adjust!
And don’t forget—your sauce’s flavor depends on layered seasoning. Add it as you go, not just at the end.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce
Mastering this creamy chicken mushroom pasta doesn’t require fancy tools—just a skillet, a pot, and a sprinkle of love. Below is a breakdown of the entire process so you get the flavor, texture, and creaminess just right—every single time.
Preparing the Chicken for Creamy Pasta
Cooking the chicken right sets the tone for the entire dish.
- Season generously: Use salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients.
- Sear, don’t boil: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Let it rest: After cooking, place the chicken on a cutting board and let it rest. This keeps the juices locked in. Slice or cube before adding it to the pasta later.
Cooking tip: Use boneless skinless chicken breast for a leaner cut, but if you’re going for extra tenderness, chicken thighs work wonders too.
Sautéing the Mushrooms for Bold Flavor
Here’s where the flavor truly builds.
- Melt a tablespoon of butter in the same pan—don’t clean it, those chicken bits are flavor gold.
- Add sliced cremini or button mushrooms. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes so they brown nicely.
- Stir in minced garlic and diced onions, letting them soften and release their aroma.
Avoid overcrowding the pan. Mushrooms need space to brown, not steam.
Making the Dreamy Cream Sauce
Here’s where things get luscious.
- Sprinkle flour into the pan and stir well—it creates the roux that thickens the sauce.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Add grated Parmesan and oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer until it thickens into that dreamy, silky texture.
Need help understanding cream consistency or food safety while storing cream-based sauces? You can check out FDA food storage guidelines to avoid spoilage.
Bringing It All Together
- Add your al dente pasta to the sauce. If it feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Toss in the sliced chicken and its juices.
- Fold in optional greens like chopped arugula or spinach for added freshness.
And voilà—your creamy chicken and mushroom pasta is ready to impress!
Nutritional Information & Storage Tips for Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce
Calories and Nutritional Breakdown
Let’s be real—this creamy chicken and mushroom pasta isn’t diet food, but it can be part of a balanced meal when portioned smartly.
A typical serving (about 1 ½ cups) contains:
- Calories: ~550–650 kcal
- Protein: 30–35g
- Carbohydrates: 45–55g
- Fat: 25–35g (mostly from cream, cheese, and butter)
- Sodium: Depends on your broth and cheese, often around 800mg
Want to make it lighter? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, use low-fat Parmesan, and cut the butter in half. You can also sub in whole wheat pasta to increase fiber. Boom—comfort food with a healthier spin.
Bonus tip: Add extra mushrooms or leafy greens to bulk it up without many added calories.
Safe Storage Tips for Leftovers
Leftovers? Lucky you. This creamy mushroom pasta reheats well with a few tricks.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Just note: cream sauces may separate slightly, but a splash of milk while reheating can fix that.
- Reheating: Always reheat gently over low heat. Use a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life.
Need a refresher on food safety and temperature guidelines? The FDA’s food safety page is a goldmine for proper reheating and storing info.
FAQs about Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Dreamy Cream Sauce
Can you use milk instead of cream in creamy pasta?
Absolutely, but there’s a catch. While milk can lighten the dish, it lacks the fat content that gives creamy garlic mushroom pasta its silky mouthfeel. If you’re substituting milk, go for whole milk and consider adding a bit of butter or flour to help thicken the sauce. Just don’t expect the same luxurious texture as with heavy cream or half-and-half.
What kind of mushrooms are best for creamy chicken pasta?
Cremini, baby bella, and portobello mushrooms are fan favorites for a reason—they’ve got a rich, earthy flavor and meaty texture that pairs perfectly with chicken. Even simple white button mushrooms work in a pinch, but for that extra umami punch, go darker and bolder. Not sure what you’ve got in the fridge? Check out this mushroom guide for help.
Why is my cream sauce too thin or watery?
This happens if you skip the flour roux step or add cream too quickly. Also, overcooked pasta releases extra water, thinning the sauce. To fix it, stir in a small mixture of flour and broth (or cornstarch slurry), then simmer until thick. Or better yet—reserve some pasta water for control!
Can I make chicken and mushroom pasta ahead of time?
Sure can! It reheats well (check Part 5 for detailed tips), just don’t overcook the pasta on round one. Slightly undercooked noodles hold their shape better when reheated.
How do I make it more flavorful?
Layer your seasoning! Sauté garlic and onions in butter, use real Parmesan, and don’t forget salt at every step. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to elevate the sauce.
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