Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort

I absolutely adore this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta! The velvety sauce combined with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms creates a comforting dish that is perfect for any weeknight dinner. I've perfected this recipe over time, and each time I make it, I find new ways to elevate the flavors, whether it’s adding fresh herbs or a touch of garlic. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it a go-to in our household when we want something delicious yet easy.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:13:35.968Z

Making this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta is always a delightful experience for me. The first time I tried it, I was amazed at how easily the flavors melded together. The combination of sautéed mushrooms with garlic and chicken in a creamy sauce is simply irresistible. I remember making it for friends, and they begged for the recipe, which made me feel like a culinary rockstar!

To elevate the dish, I experimented with different kinds of mushrooms, and I discovered that a mix of cremini and shiitake adds such depth to the flavor. Also, don't skip on the fresh parsley at the end; it really brightens the rich sauce. Trust me, every bite is a little piece of comfort!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops each pasta strand
Tender chicken pieces that soak up all the delicious flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Pasta Choice

When making Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta, the type of pasta you choose can significantly impact the overall dish. Fettuccine is ideal for this recipe due to its flat and wide shape, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to each strand. Should you want to try a different shape, linguine or pappardelle may also work well, providing a similar texture. Avoid lighter pasta shapes like spaghetti, as they may not hold up as well to the rich sauce.

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial for achieving the right texture. Pasta that’s too soft can become mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce. Aim for an ‘al dente’ state where the pasta is slightly firm to the bite; this will enhance the overall eating experience and ensure it holds its shape during serving.

Sautéed Mushroom Techniques

Mushrooms are a star player in this dish, contributing both flavor and texture. Sautéing them properly is essential; make sure you give them enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than sauté, resulting in a soggy texture. Cook them in batches if necessary, ensuring a golden, caramelized edge that enhances their earthy flavor.

Using fresh mushrooms makes a noticeable difference in taste. While button mushrooms are a common choice, a mix of cremini and shiitake can elevate the dish with deeper flavors. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced mushrooms are convenient; just ensure they are fresh and firm to avoid any undesirable textures.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning to make it ahead, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated. Store the pasta and sauce separately, if possible, to prevent the pasta from becoming overly soggy during storage.

To reheat the dish, return it to a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir occasionally, cooking until heated through. Avoid microwaving it directly, as this can lead to uneven heating and an undesirable change in the dish's consistency.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother!

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to taste your sauce and adjust the seasonings as necessary!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and tender.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low, and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mushroom chicken pasta warm!

Don't forget to save some for leftovers; it tastes even better the next day!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Feel free to substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Customizing Flavors

While this recipe shines on its own, it also welcomes customization. For a bit more kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. If you enjoy a brighter flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can elevate the dish beautifully. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a sharp cheddar for a unique twist on the creamy sauce.

Herbs such as thyme or rosemary can be added with the mushrooms for an aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with the chicken. Alternatively, fresh basil stirred in right before serving can bring a refreshing finish to the recipe. Don’t hesitate to mix and match herbs according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sauce appears too thick after combining everything, don't hesitate to add more chicken broth gradually to loosen it up to your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it's too watery, allow it to simmer on low heat for a few minutes until it thickens up. This tip is particularly useful if you adjust ingredient amounts or substitute lower-fat alternatives.

Another common issue is when the pasta sticks together during preparation. Make sure you’re generous with stirring during cooking, and remember to toss it with a touch of olive oil after draining. This will help keep the pasta strands separate and ensure they mix well with the creamy sauce later on.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well with this creamy sauce!

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

→ Is there a way to make it healthier?

Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream or milk and add more vegetables like spinach or peas.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just be aware that the sauce may separate upon reheating.