Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Introduction

Have you ever found yourself craving a dish that balances comfort and gourmet flair? According to a recent survey, 78% of people believe that cooking at home can be just as satisfying as dining out. Enter the Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce—a dish that promises a rich blend of flavors, creamy textures, and an easy preparation that will elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious meal right in your kitchen!

Ingredients List

For the Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce, you will need the following:

• Pasta: 300g of fettuccine or penne (gluten-free options available)
• Chicken: 300g of boneless chicken breasts (substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option)
• Mushrooms: 200g of cremini or button mushrooms (shiitake mushrooms offer a gourmet twist)
• Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream (use coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
• Parmesan cheese: 80g, grated (nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Fresh parsley: for garnish (basil can also work wonderfully)

Timing

The total time to prepare and cook this delightful dish is about 30 minutes. This is a whopping 20% less time than the average pasta recipe, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the wait!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Draining your pasta before it becomes overly soft will ensure it retains a delightful bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and slice it into strips.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually incorporate the Parmesan cheese while mixing until it melts and the sauce thickens. Return the sliced chicken to the pan, allowing it to simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat it generously with the creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for an exquisite dining experience.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves four and offers a hearty portion of protein, carbohydrates, and a wealth of vitamins. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, 30g of protein, and 35g of fat. While indulgent, the balance of nutrients can complement an active lifestyle.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Substitute whole wheat pasta to boost fiber content.
• Use skinless chicken thighs for more flavor while retaining moisture.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a nut-based cream to reduce calories and increase protein.

This adaptability accommodates gluten-free and vegan diets without compromising on taste.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce, consider serving it with:

• A sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the rich flavors.
• A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette on the side can balance the meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Always remember to taste-test your pasta a minute before the suggested cooking time.
2. Too Much Cream: Adjust the quantity according to your taste; a little goes a long way in achieving creaminess without overpowering the dish.
3. Not Seasoning Adequately: Layering in salt and pepper at different cooking stages enhances flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
• Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pasta in portions, ensuring your sauce does not separate upon thawing.

Conclusion

The Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you into the world of culinary delight. Rich flavors, easy prep, and adaptability make it a perfect candidate for various occasions. So why not gather your ingredients and try this delicious recipe tonight? Share your experiences in the comments below and explore our other culinary delights!

FAQs

Q: Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or plant-based options like tempeh work wonderfully in this recipe.

Q: What can I pair this dish with?
A: This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a vibrant salad to balance the creamy flavors.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish low-carb?
A: Yes! Try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash as a substitute for traditional pasta.

Embrace the flavors of home cooking with this simple yet exceptional meal. Enjoy cooking!

Decadent Chicken & Mushroom Pasta with Creamy Sauce

A rich blend of flavors and creamy textures, this pasta dish elevates your dining experience with ease and satisfaction.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 300 g fettuccine or penne (gluten-free options available)
• 300 g boneless chicken breasts (substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option)
• 200 g cremini or button mushrooms (shiitake mushrooms offer a gourmet twist)
• 1 cup heavy cream (use coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 80 g Parmesan cheese, grated (nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (basil can also work wonderfully)

Instructions

 

Cooking

• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta before it becomes overly soft.
• While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice into strips.
• In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
• Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually incorporate the Parmesan cheese while mixing until it melts and the sauce thickens. Return the sliced chicken to the pan and simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes.
• Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat it generously with the creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

You can substitute whole wheat pasta for more fiber, use skinless chicken thighs for more flavor, or swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a nut-based cream to reduce calories. Pair with lemon zest or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.

Keyword Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food, Creamy Pasta, Easy Dinner, Mushroom Pasta

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest