This Chicken Mushroom Pasta is a creamy delight filled with tender chicken and savory mushrooms. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how the sauce clings to the pasta—it makes every bite cozy and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: Bow-tie pasta is a fun shape for this dish, but you can swap it out for any pasta you like! I often use penne or fusilli for a different bite.
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works great too. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or diced tofu.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their deep flavor, but white button mushrooms or even shiitake can work well. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, zucchini or spinach can be a great substitute.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat. Just add a little cornstarch for thickness!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Cook Poultry to Perfection?
Cooking chicken well ensures it’s juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet and add olive oil for a nice sear.
- Season the chicken pieces well with salt and pepper to enhance their taste.
- Cook in a single layer without overcrowding, allowing them to brown properly.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F to be fully cooked.
- Let chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
How to Make Chicken Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Mushroom Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 20 minutes cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring a salted pot of water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown. This will add a delicious flavor to your dish!
4. Add Flavor with Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Blend in the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!
7. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked farfalle pasta and chopped parsley into the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
8. Final Touches:
Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, and if you’d like, stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra richness and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with additional parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken Mushroom Pasta!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the farfalle pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Mushroom Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce if it gets too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, use a non-dairy cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for added flavor.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs, such as thyme or basil, during the cooking process. You can also sauté some spinach with the mushrooms for an additional veggie boost!