Heavenly Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce

 


Indulge in this luxurious yet easy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta featuring tender pan-seared chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the creamiest Parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle. This foolproof recipe delivers five-star flavor with weeknight ease - the ultimate comfort food that feels decadent but comes together in one pan!

Ingredients

(Professional Tip: Use a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms for earthy depth.)

Main Components:

  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, pappardelle, or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs , sliced into strips
  • 2 cups mixed mushrooms , sliced (cremini, shiitake, or button)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 shallot , finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.

  2. Sear the Chicken:
    Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

  3. Sauté Mushrooms:
    In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add mushrooms and cook 5-6 minutes until caramelized. Add shallot and garlic; sauté 2 minutes.

  4. Deglaze & Build Sauce:
    Pour in white wine, scraping up browned bits. Let reduce by half (2-3 minutes). Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, thyme, and remaining 3 tbsp butter. Simmer until thickened (3-4 minutes).

  5. Combine Everything:
    Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water ¼ cup at a time for a silkier texture.

  6. Serve:
    Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Silky Sauce Secret: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent curdling. Simmer gently.
  • Umami Boost: Add 1 tsp soy sauce or ½ tsp miso paste to the sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with roasted mushrooms or chickpeas.
  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half + 1 tbsp cornstarch (whisked in) instead of cream.


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