This Chicken Mushroom Pasta is a comfy and tasty dish that’s super easy to whip up. With juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce, it’s a winner for dinner!
You can have it on the table in no time, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch—who doesn’t love cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is my favorite for this dish because it catches the sauce beautifully. If you don’t have farfalle, use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand—just cook it until al dente.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple. You can swap in chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms bring a nice earthy flavor. However, white button mushrooms work just as well. You can also try dried mushrooms—just rehydrate them first!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream provides a different but delightful flavor, though it will taste a bit nutty.
Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for the best flavor. If you’re out of it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work nicely.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start with room temperature chicken. Let it sit out for 15-30 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before putting it in the skillet.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear on the chicken—this locks in the juices!
- Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Check with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest off the heat for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce. This helps keep it tender.
How to Make Chicken Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225 g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Mushroom Pasta can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sear the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Stir them around and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for an additional minute, until it’s fragrant. Yum!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom—this will add flavor! Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine and Serve:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken a bit. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the chicken is well coated in the creamy mushroom sauce. Add in the chopped parsley and taste; adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For a little extra richness, you can mix in a tablespoon of butter!
6. Plate Your Dish:
Serve the creamy Chicken Mushroom sauce over the cooked farfalle pasta. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra delicious touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is delightful, you can substitute it with other pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten up the dish, consider using whole wheat pasta and swapping heavy cream for a lower-fat option like half-and-half or a plant-based milk. You can also add in more veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the sauce, stirring occasionally.
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Yes, you can! Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with fresh pasta right before serving. Store components separately in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from getting mushy.