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: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely adore whipping up a creamy mushroom chicken pasta on busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce is not only delicious but also comes together quickly. I've learned a few tricks over time, like sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden to enhance their flavor and ensuring the pasta is perfectly al dente. This dish has become a favorite in my household, delivering comfort with every bite while being easy enough for anyone to replicate.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:10:37.377Z

When I first experimented with chicken and mushrooms, I was unsure how the flavors would blend. But after adjusting the creaminess of the sauce and seasoning it just right, I found the perfect balance—a mix that even my pickiest eater couldn't resist. It’s become a staple in our meal rotation, and I love hearing the empty plates that follow.

One key takeaway from my many attempts is to let the sauce simmer just long enough to meld the flavors. It helps develop that luxurious coating around the pasta, and trust me, it makes a world of difference to the overall dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory flavor that satisfies any craving
Silky, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Pasta

Getting your pasta just right is crucial for this creamy mushroom chicken pasta. Aim for al dente fettuccine, which should be firm but not hard—about 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the brand. Tossing the pasta with a splash of olive oil after draining will help prevent stickiness. If you're a fan of fresh pasta, you can use that instead; it only takes a couple of minutes to cook and will elevate the dish with its texture.

For added depth, consider experimenting with different pasta varieties. While fettuccine is perfect for catching the creamy sauce, you could also use pappardelle for a wider noodle or penne for an easier bite. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose for an optimal texture.

Sautéing for Flavor

Sautéing the mushrooms until they are well-browned is a vital step that enhances the nutty flavor profile of this dish. Cook them over medium-high heat, allowing them to release their moisture completely, which typically takes about 5 minutes. If they start sticking to the pan, just add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze. This not only elevates their flavor but also adds a base for the creamy sauce.

If you're looking to reduce calories but still want that rich taste, you can swap out heavy cream for a blend of half-and-half and cream cheese. This substitution will still yield a creamy consistency while lightening up the dish. Similarly, using portobello or shiitake mushrooms can add additional umami flavors that complement the chicken wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creamy mushroom chicken pasta even further, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the richness of the sauce beautifully. Additionally, serving it alongside some garlic bread can make for an indulgent meal that’s great for sharing.

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the desired creaminess. For freezing, cool the dish completely, then store in airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to a month, making it a perfect meal-prep option.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dish

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sliced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce as it simmers. It enhances the dish beautifully!

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use skinless turkey breast instead of chicken. It cooks similarly but offers a different flavor profile that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce. Just be sure to adjust cooking times for the turkey, as it may cook faster than chicken. Additionally, feel free to swap the mushrooms for zucchini or asparagus if you want some vegetables in there without losing the essence of the dish.

For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken entirely and add in a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, oyster, or even some roasted vegetables. I’ve found that when sautéed together, these ingredients create a hearty meal that’s equally satisfying without meat. Just adjust the seasoning to ensure robust flavor throughout.

Common Troubleshooting

One common pitfall in creamy pasta dishes is ending up with a sauce that separates. To avoid this, make sure to keep the heat low once you add the cream, and stir continuously to maintain a smooth consistency. If your sauce does split, whisking in a small amount of cold water or cream can help bring it back together.

Another issue could be overcooking the chicken, causing it to become dry. To prevent this, slice the chicken breasts to even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Always rely on a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness. With these techniques, you’ll set yourself up for a perfectly creamy and flavorful dish every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less oil when cooking.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

→ What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to add spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor!