If you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-worthy dinner at home, Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce will absolutely win you over. This dish brings together golden seared chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a glossy, dreamy cream sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Quick enough for weeknights but fancy enough for company, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re after a comforting bowl after a long day or the show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce always delivers both flavor and heart.

Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how a handful of simple ingredients transform into pure magic on your plate. Every element—chicken, mushrooms, and that lush creamy sauce—plays a vibrant role, coming together in perfect harmony for the ultimate comfort dish.

Fettuccine or Penne Pasta (12 oz): Choose your favorite shape; fettuccine cradles the creamy sauce beautifully, while penne soaks it up inside and out.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a golden base for searing chicken and keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (1 lb, bite-sized pieces): Tender, lean protein that soaks up seasoning and stays moist in the sauce.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and a hint of nutty flavor when sautéing the mushrooms.
Cremini or White Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Their earthy flavor adds depth and soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic warmth into the whole dish.
Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Deglazes the pan and boosts the savory profile of the sauce.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to a rich, velvety sauce that brings everything together.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the sauce for deep umami and a hint of saltiness.
Dried Thyme or Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Lends herbal notes and a touch of complexity.
Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor to finish the dish.

How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or penne until al dente—usually one or two minutes less than the package says. Drain it, but don’t forget to save a cup of that starchy pasta water for adjusting the sauce later. Set the pasta aside and get ready for the best part.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside for now.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, drop in your butter and let it melt, then add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for 5–6 minutes, stirring only occasionally, so they can really brown and develop flavor. The mushrooms will shrink and deepen in color. Throw in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute, until wonderfully fragrant—don’t let it burn!

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into the pan, scraping up any golden, tasty bits from the bottom (these add tons of flavor). Next, pour in the heavy cream, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens up a little. You’ll see the cheese melt and everything come together in a glossy, luscious sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Return the browned chicken to the skillet and add your cooked pasta. Toss everything gently so the pasta and chicken are generously coated in that creamy, mushroom-rich sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash or two of your reserved pasta water will loosen things just enough. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper, if needed.

How to Serve Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds pop and freshness right before serving. If you’re feeling a bit extra, a light dusting of more grated Parmesan gives that perfect final flourish. You can also crack some black pepper right over the top for a bit of kick and visual flair.

Side Dishes

Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce pairs beautifully with sides that offer contrast. Try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, jewel-toned roasted vegetables, or classic garlic bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce on your plate. These sides keep your meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce in shallow pasta bowls for a rustic, homey touch, or plate it with tongs for dramatic, twirled nests. For a dinner party, add a few extra sprigs of parsley and shavings of Parmesan right at the table—the wow factor is real! Layer on a handful of baby spinach when tossing, or top with a swirl of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce will thicken in the fridge but is easily revived with a little liquid when reheating.

Freezing

Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce can be frozen, although the creamy sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth, stirring frequently until warmed through and the sauce is smooth again. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the sauce or make it separate. Stir gently and add liquid as needed for a silky finish.

FAQs

What type Main Course

Fettuccine and penne are both delicious choices for this dish—fettuccine coats well with the sauce for a luxurious bite, while penne captures the creamy sauce inside, making every forkful flavorful. Feel free to use any pasta you love, even gluten-free options for a lighter meal!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually even more forgiving and stay super juicy. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook as directed. The flavor is a bit richer, which pairs gorgeously with the mushrooms and creamy sauce.

Is there a lighter substitution for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version of Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce will be a bit less rich, but still plenty creamy and satisfying.

How do I add extra vegetables?

If you want more color and nutrition, toss in a handful of baby spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce before mixing with the pasta. These extras cook down beautifully and don’t overpower the other flavors.

Can I make Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and even the mushrooms a day ahead. Assemble and toss with the sauce just before serving for the creamiest results. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silkiness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying meal, Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce is your ticket to instant happiness. It’s a recipe you’ll turn to for everything from cozy nights in to easy entertaining. Don’t wait—give it a try soon and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible scents of garlic, cream, and Parmesan. You’re going to love every single bite!

Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Creamy Sauce recipe. Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms are enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and tossed with your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper to taste

Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken, cook in olive oil until browned. Set aside.
Prepare the sauce: Sauté mushrooms, garlic, add broth, cream, cheese, and seasoning. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Add chicken and pasta to the sauce, toss to coat.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!