Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 250g pasta (fettuccine or penne); 1 tablespoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 300g mushrooms, sliced; 400g chicken breast, cooked and sliced; 200ml heavy cream; 50ml white wine; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meals

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta because it combines the richness of cream with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and tender chicken. Each time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of the cozy evenings spent experimenting in the kitchen. It's quick to whip up, taking around 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special weekend gathering. The creamy sauce pairs impeccably with the pasta, creating a delightful dish that's sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:53:36.172Z

Preparing Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. The use of fresh mushrooms enhances the flavor, while the cream makes everything luscious and satisfying. I always recommend letting the mushrooms sauté until they are golden brown, which really brings out their umami goodness.

This recipe works beautifully because it balances the richness of the cream with the savory chicken, keeping each bite exciting. Don't skip adding a splash of white wine for a touch of acidity; it elevates the dish profoundly. I can't wait for you to try it!

What You'll Love
Silky creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
Hearty chicken balanced by the earthy mushrooms
Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta is crucial for this dish's success. Fettuccine is particularly excellent because its flat surface holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, but penne offers a delightful bite with its tubular shape. You might consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option. Regardless of your choice, the cooking time generally remains the same – around 8-12 minutes for al dente.

Mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. For this recipe, I prefer cremini or shiitake mushrooms due to their robust taste. If you're feeling adventurous, feel free to combine different varieties. Make sure to keep the mushrooms sautéing until they're golden brown; this enhances their flavor and removes excess moisture, yielding a better texture in the final dish.

Key Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions, ensure they're cooked over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step lays the foundation for flavor, so don't rush it! Stirring helps prevent sticking, and you might even see a slight caramelization, which adds another layer of depth to your sauce.

Once you add the heavy cream and white wine, let the mixture simmer on low for about 5 minutes. This is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the skillet or becoming overly thick. You want a silky texture that clings to your pasta but isn’t too heavy.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

250g pasta (fettuccine or penne)
1 tablespoon salt

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
300g mushrooms, sliced
400g chicken breast, cooked and sliced
200ml heavy cream
50ml white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Combine all ingredients to create a memorable meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Mushrooms and Chicken

Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. Add the cooked chicken and stir to combine.

Make it Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and white wine. Stir well, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your creamy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce or a handful of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to reheat it, consider adding a splash of milk or a little more cream to restore its creamy texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat while stirring frequently to avoid uneven heating and to keep from drying out the dish.

Freezing this pasta may not yield the best results due to the cream separating upon thawing. However, if you choose to freeze it, make sure to omit the cream and store the chicken and mushroom mix separately. Once thawed, you can reheat it in a pan and stir in fresh cream to recreate that rich sauce experience.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider serving this dish in shallow bowls and garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds a beautiful color contrast and enhances flavor. Pair it with a light side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Also, if you want to elevate the dish further, think about adding some spinach or kale for extra nutrition. Toss in these greens during the last couple of minutes of cooking; they'll wilt down beautifully and add a vibrant touch to your creamy pasta without altering the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! This sauce works well with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers are great additions.