Introduction

This Decadent Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce is a comforting dish that feels like a gourmet restaurant experience in the comfort of your own home. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxurious creamy sauce makes it a family favorite and a hit for dinner parties.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300g (10 oz) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or tagliatelle work well)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or shiitake)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Create the sauce: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then add the heavy cream and dried thyme. Reduce the heat and let the sauce cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the pasta. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Serving and Storage Tips

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken stock to refresh the sauce.

Variations

• Protein alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers.
• Herb swap: Use fresh basil or oregano instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.

Tips

• For maximum flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Reserve pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the mushrooms to allow even browning.

Small Story: Motivation Behind This Recipe

This recipe was born out of a desire to recreate a restaurant-quality pasta dish at home. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and mushrooms quickly became a family favorite. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough to prepare on a weeknight. Now, it’s a go-to recipe whenever I want to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal.

Conclusion

Decadent Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce is the perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Try this recipe and bring a touch of indulgence to your dinner table!

FAQs

• Can I use milk instead of cream? Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
• What’s the best pasta type for this dish? Fettuccine, penne, or tagliatelle work best as they hold the creamy sauce well.
• Can I freeze this dish? It’s not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and mushrooms separately and prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve.