Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta

Description:

This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, indulgent dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. The creamy sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic perfectly coats the tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Tossed with al dente pasta, this dish is both hearty and flavorful, bringing the perfect balance of creaminess and savory depth.

Origin:

The dish is a fusion of classic Italian-inspired pasta recipes, known for their use of rich cream sauces, and French-style techniques of incorporating mushrooms and chicken into sauces. It has become a popular comfort food worldwide due to its rich flavor and easy-to-make nature.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine or penne pasta: 12 oz (about 3 cups uncooked)
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp (for cooking chicken)
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 large (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ¼ tsp
• Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
• Button mushrooms: 2 cups (sliced)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Chicken broth: ½ cup
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (freshly grated)
• Butter: 2 tbsp (for the sauce)
• Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (chopped, for garnish)

Optional:

• Red pepper flakes: ¼ tsp (for a spicy kick)
• Fresh thyme: 1 tsp (for added flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, or until they are softened and lightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Simmer the sauce for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
3. If using, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or fresh thyme for extra flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Optionally, top with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Tip: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. If using a meat thermometer, aim for 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Mushroom Tip: For extra depth of flavor, try using a mix of wild mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, instead of just button mushrooms.
• Cream Sauce Tip: Keep the heat low once you add the cream, as high heat can cause the sauce to separate.
• Pasta Tip: Save a little pasta water before draining. It can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus also makes a great complement.
• Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is a rich and delicious dish that’s easy to make yet feels like a luxurious meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with its comforting flavors!