Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce

Description:

Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. This indulgent pasta is a perfect meal for a cozy dinner, offering a balance of savory flavors and creamy textures. The sauce is made with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan for added depth, making this dish irresistible.

Origin:

This dish is inspired by Italian-American cuisine, where pasta with creamy sauces is a beloved classic. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a silky cream sauce creates a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that is easy to prepare at home. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served with any type of pasta you prefer.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

For the Pasta:

• Pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti): 12 oz (340 g)
• Salt: 1 tbsp (for the pasta water)
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp (for cooking the chicken)

For the Chicken and Mushroom Sauce:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or cubes): 1 lb (450 g)
• Mushrooms (sliced, such as cremini or white button): 8 oz (225 g)
• Butter: 2 tbsp (30 g)
• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Chicken broth: ½ cup (120 ml)
• Parmesan cheese (grated): ¼ cup (25 g)
• Fresh parsley (chopped): 2 tbsp (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
• Lemon zest (optional, for a fresh kick): 1 tsp

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh spinach: 1 cup (for extra color and flavor)
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat (optional)
• White wine: ¼ cup (for deglazing the pan)
• Balsamic vinegar: A splash for added depth (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken strips or cubes with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Mushroom Sauce

1. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pan (Optional): If using white wine, pour it in now to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Let the wine cook off for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Let it heat through.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken and mushroom sauce. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Optionally, add a dash of lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added freshness and depth of flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Creaminess Adjustment: If you prefer a richer sauce, add a bit more heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra smoothness.
• Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles and adds starch, which enhances the creaminess.
• Pasta Choice: Use wide pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle for more sauce coverage, or go for penne or rotini to hold onto the creamy sauce in each bite.
• Leftovers: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Recommendations:

• Pairings: Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce, while a light red like Pinot Noir would work well with the earthy mushrooms.
• Add Vegetables: For added color and nutrition, sauté fresh spinach or kale and stir it into the sauce just before combining with the pasta.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Serves 4):

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 35 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Cholesterol: 130 mg

This Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with a Silky Cream Sauce is the perfect balance of richness and flavor, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness in every bite!