Description
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients:
12 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and mushrooms for 2 minutes until fragrant.4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens.6. Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together.7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect result every time. Begin by preparing all ingredients: dice the chicken, slice the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan. This “mise en place” is crucial for a smooth cooking process. When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chicken, letting it sear without moving it for a few minutes to achieve that golden-brown crust. For the sauce, let the cream and broth simmer gently after adding the Parmesan; a low bubble is key to thickening the sauce without breaking it. Finally, when combining everything, toss the pasta and chicken in the sauce off the heat to coat evenly without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli pair wonderfully. To complement the meal, a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay works beautifully.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook and drain the pasta. Sear seasoned chicken in oil until golden, then remove. Sauté garlic and mushrooms in the same pan. Add cream and broth, then stir in Parmesan until thickened. Combine sauce, chicken, and pasta. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well. Choose a shape that holds the creamy sauce effectively.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Note the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but combine just before serving. The sauce may thicken when cooled; reheat it gently with a splash of broth or milk.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little added broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes. Add shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken when you combine the pasta and sauce, just long enough to heat through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the diced chicken too long in the first step will make it dry. Remove it as soon as it’s golden brown.
- High Heat for the Sauce: Boiling the cream-based sauce vigorously can cause it to separate or become greasy. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Grating a block of Parmesan fresh is always best.
- Rinsing the Pasta: Avoid rinsing the cooked pasta, as the starch helps the sauce adhere to each piece.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is a quintessential comfort dish that balances simplicity with decadent flavor. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Its versatility in ingredients and pairing options makes it a reliable recipe for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests. We hope this enhanced guide helps you master this delicious classic.