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Are you ready to indulge in a rich, creamy dish that warms the soul? Our Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner party. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce made with heavy cream that will leave everyone wanting seconds. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels!
Recipe Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, chicken, and mushrooms creates a sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s comfort food at its finest, showcasing the best of chicken cream and mushroom pasta.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip this dish up in no time, making it a go-to for chicken and mushroom pasta with cream lovers.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress everyone at the table with its decadent flavors of chicken mushroom, and cream pasta.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to make it your own!
Ingredients for Chicken Cream and Mushroom Pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1.1 lbs (500 g) of chopped chicken breast
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 7 oz (200 g) button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup (40 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3.5 oz (100 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 lb (500 g) pasta (e.g., fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with Cream
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Season the chicken breast with the spice mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. After cooking, transfer the chicken from the skillet to a plate and set it aside to keep warm.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce for Chicken Mushroom and Cream Pasta:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they turn golden brown and their moisture has evaporated (about 4-5 minutes).
- Deglaze the pan by adding the cooked chicken back in, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes to melt the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating that luxurious texture synonymous with chicken and mushroom pasta with cream.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the sauce, forming a creamy delight that defines chicken mushroom and cream pasta.
- Finally, add the baby spinach, cooking just until it wilts into the sauce.
4. Bring It All Together:
Add the cooked pasta and the seared chicken back into the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a satisfying chicken and mushroom pasta with cream experience.
5. Serve Your Chicken Cream and Mushroom Pasta:
Serve your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or some crusty bread!
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken and Mushroom Pasta with Cream
This chicken cream and mushroom pasta not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, while mushrooms add fiber and essential vitamins. The heavy cream contributes to the richness of the sauce, offering a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the pasta. Adding spinach boosts the dish’s nutritional value, providing iron and antioxidants.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Mushroom and Cream Pasta Dish:
- Choose the Right Pasta: While this recipe works well with various pasta types, consider using fettuccine for a classic Italian feel or penne for easy serving.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh mushrooms and spinach to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain a delightful bite and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half with low-fat milk. However, for a truly indulgent experience, stick with the heavy cream!
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted red peppers for added color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and creamy sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything for a quick meal.
Can I freeze leftover pasta?
Although this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the creamy sauce and cooked chicken separately. When it’s time to serve, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop. Since pasta can lose some of its texture after freezing, it’s best to cook a fresh batch of pasta when you’re ready to eat.
What can I serve with creamy chicken and mushroom pasta?
This dish goes perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, also complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts on Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
If you’re searching for a comforting, easy-to-make pasta dish that is sure to impress, look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Recipe. With its delightful flavors and creamy sauce, this dish has become a favorite in many households.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings and warm your heart! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy the flavors, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations!
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