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: 12 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta; Salt for boiling water; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Hearty Meals

I absolutely love this Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta! It's been a family favorite for years, and every time I make it, I remember the first time I whipped it up for a dinner party. The rich, velvety sauce combined with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms creates a dish that's both comforting and elegant. It’s a recipe where the flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering with friends. I know you'll enjoy every bite as much as I do!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:45:36.430Z

I remember the first time I made Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta for my friends at a dinner party. They were wowed by the flavors and the creamy texture. I used a blend of fresh mushrooms and a splash of white wine, which elevated the dish significantly. I highly recommend using high-quality pasta to enhance the overall experience!

This pasta dish is not just filling; it’s a hug in a bowl. One of my tips is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed. It’s amazing how it brings everything together! I guarantee it will quickly become a regular on your dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops each pasta strand
Tender chicken with earthy mushrooms for perfect flavor balance
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Key Techniques for Success

To achieve that silky, creamy texture in your sauce, it’s essential to monitor the heat closely. Start with a medium heat when cooking the chicken and vegetables to ensure they are properly browned. Once you add the cream and cheese, reduce the heat to low. This prevents the dairy from curdling, which can happen if the mixture boils too vigorously. Stir constantly while simmering to create that luxurious emulsion you want in a creamy pasta sauce.

When sautéing the mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the pan. If too many mushrooms are added at once, they can steam rather than sauté, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Instead, work in batches if you’re using a lot of mushrooms, giving them space in the pan to develop golden edges. This caramelization brings out their natural umami, which enhances the overall depth of flavor in the sauce.

Ingredient Insights

The type of pasta you choose can affect the overall dish. Fettuccine is a classic option due to its flat surface, which holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you're using. The key is to aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

Using fresh herbs, particularly parsley for garnish, not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that contrasts the richness of the sauce. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving or mixing in some spinach for extra nutrients and color. The earthiness of mushrooms pairs exceptionally well with these bright accents, creating a well-rounded dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add sliced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes, then add the chopped onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are translucent and mushrooms are tender.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve

Dish up the creamy mushroom chicken pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread!

Enjoy your delicious and creamy pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy mushroom chicken pasta can be prepared in advance, which is ideal for busy weeknights. Cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately, storing both in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for about 2-3 days, while the sauce can last 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce.

If you're considering freezing, the best practice is to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. The cooked pasta tends to become mushy once frozen and reheated. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently, to bring back the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy mushroom chicken pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A light arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan complements this dish beautifully. Additionally, crusty garlic bread can be a fantastic addition, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

For a more indulgent experience, consider topping the dish with additional grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the dish, enhancing the flavors of the mushrooms and the creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and add more vegetables if you'd like.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

→ Can I add other proteins to this dish?

Yes! Shrimp or sautéed tofu would also work wonderfully in this creamy pasta dish.