Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Comfort Creations

I can't get enough of how comforting this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta is! The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce creates a dish that's perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion. I love how quickly it comes together in just one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on busy days yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy pasta dish!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:21:36.083Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together beautifully. The secret really lies in sautéing the mushrooms until they are golden brown, which brings out their nutty flavor. Adding garlic and thyme enhances the depth of the sauce, creating an aromatic experience that fills the kitchen.

I remember the first time I served it to my family; their faces lit up with delight after the first bite. Now, we often enjoy it for special family gatherings, and it has become a staple in our home because everyone always asks for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that clings to each pasta strand
Hearty mushrooms add an earthy depth to the dish
Quick and easy one-pot recipe for hassle-free cooking

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this dish, providing that rich, velvety texture that complements the fettuccine so well. To achieve the perfect sauce, make sure to simmer the mixture gently, avoiding a rapid boil, which can cause the cream to separate. You'll know you're on the right track when the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the back of a spoon, usually after about 5 minutes of cooking after adding the cream.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the flavor profile of the sauce. Adding a splash of white wine during the simmer can introduce a delightful acidity that balances the creaminess. Alternatively, for a bit of zing, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the sauce beautifully, pairing wonderfully with the earthy mushrooms.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Using a combination of mushrooms can enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish. While cremini (baby bella) mushrooms provide a robust, savory backdrop, adding shiitake or portobello mushrooms can introduce a woodsy, meaty depth. Be sure to clean them gently with a damp cloth rather than rinsing under water, as mushrooms absorb moisture. This prevents your dish from becoming too watery as they release their juices during cooking.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute the chicken with additional mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as these alternatives may require different handling. For instance, tempeh should be sautéed until golden brown to enhance its flavor.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad to balance its richness. A simple mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess, making each bite more refreshing. You could also consider serving it alongside crusty garlic bread for a delightful texture contrast and a means to soak up the luscious sauce.

For a complete meal experience, you might serve this pasta with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. Both wines complement the creamy texture and enhance the dish's earthy notes without overpowering the flavors. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon or herbal iced tea could be excellent choices to serve alongside.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure everything is prepared before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any brown bits. Add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the pan and combine with the sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta!

Pair this dish with a simple side salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Storing and Reheating

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing this dish correctly is key to maintaining its creamy texture. Place the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 3 days. Avoid adding extra sauce before refrigerating, as the pasta will absorb moisture and could become too dry when reheated.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can revive the texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If you're cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients maintaining the same cooking techniques. Keep in mind that a larger quantity might require a wider skillet or even using two pans to accommodate the increased volume effectively without overcrowding the ingredients.

For smaller portions, you can halve the recipe, sticking closely to the cooking times outlined. However, many find that making the full batch yields better results as it allows for proper sautéing of the mushrooms and chicken, maximizing flavor. Plus, you’ll have delicious leftovers ready to go, which is a bonus at the end of a busy day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat.

→ How can I make this dish lower in calories?

You can use light cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream, and opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to this creamy dish.