When it comes to weeknight dinners that feel like a warm hug, Chicken and Mushroom Pasta in Cream Sauce is always at the top of the list. This dish is rich, creamy, and loaded with tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of comforting, restaurant-worthy meal that feels special—but comes together in under 30 minutes.
Why I Love This Recipe
This pasta dish checks all the right boxes: it’s comforting without being overly heavy, rich but balanced, and incredibly flavorful thanks to the garlic, Parmesan, and sautéed mushrooms. It uses everyday ingredients but tastes like something you’d get at a fancy bistro. Whether you’re cooking for family, a date night in, or just craving something indulgent, this is the kind of meal that leaves everyone satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Swaps and Notes
- Pasta: Fettuccine is classic, but you can swap in penne, linguine, or even tagliatelle.
- Mushrooms: Cremini, button, or baby bellas all work well.
- Cream Substitute: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the richness will be lessened.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce—it melts better than pre-shredded.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of white wine with the broth or a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed, then cook the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Cook the Mushrooms
Add mushrooms to the pan and sauté until tender and golden, about 5–6 minutes. Stir occasionally to develop flavor.
5. Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then simmer gently for another 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken and fettuccine to the pan. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
7. Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy that creamy, dreamy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when added back to the sauce.
- Deglaze the pan with broth after cooking mushrooms to lift all the flavorful bits.
- Stir sauce gently to avoid breaking the cream.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley—it brightens the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This creamy pasta is a full meal on its own, but here are a few sides and sips that make it even more satisfying:
- Pair with Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders for a family-friendly dinner spread.
- Balance the richness with a crisp green salad or garlic roasted vegetables.
- Enjoy alongside a glass of dry white wine or lemonade.
- Follow it with a light dessert or cozy comfort like Instant Pot Lasagna for a carb-lover’s feast.
- For comfort food fans, pair with Dorito Casserole or Easy Turkey Wings.
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Rewarm gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing Not Recommended: The cream sauce can separate—best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more rich, comforting meals? Try these:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Dorito Casserole
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
Final Thoughts
This Luxurious Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is everything you want in a dinner: hearty, creamy, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers all the cozy vibes and then some.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and tag @ChefManiac on socials—we love seeing your creations! And don’t forget to follow for more comfort food with flair.
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