Chicken Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Name: Chicken Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Seasons of Comfort

I recently discovered the joy of making Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce at home, and it has quickly become a favorite in our household. The rich, creamy sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. It only takes about 30 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic elevates the flavors, and I love serving it with a sprinkle of parmesan for that extra touch.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:01:34.941Z

When I first made this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The trick lies in sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden brown, which enhances their umami taste. I found that using fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma and complements the richness of the sauce perfectly.

This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it also looks stunning on the plate. Pouring the creamy sauce over the pasta and chicken creates a glossy finish that is visually appealing. One tip I learned is to reserve some pasta water, which helps to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops every bite of pasta
Tender chicken elevates the dish to comfort food status
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is what truly makes the dish shine. To achieve that silky texture, you'll want to keep the heat at medium-low once you add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bringing it to a gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld without risking separation. Watch for it to thicken slightly, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes—this is your cue to incorporate the thyme for that aromatic boost.

If you find that the sauce is too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This addition not only thins out the mixture but also helps in binding the sauce to the pasta due to the starches in the water. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish. When selecting mushrooms, opt for cremini or shiitake varieties for a deeper, more robust flavor compared to plain white mushrooms. Additionally, fresh thyme provides a fragrant herbal note that dried herbs can’t quite replicate; however, if you need a substitute, consider using fresh rosemary or parsley for a different yet equally delicious twist.

Don’t overlook the quality of your chicken. Choosing organic or free-range chicken will yield a juicier and more flavorful result. For a healthier option, you can even substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs, which maintain their moisture better during cooking. If dietary restrictions exist, replacing the heavy cream with coconut cream can create a unique flavor while still providing the creaminess you crave.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta is an art in itself. Always remember to salt your boiling water generously before adding the fettuccine; this is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out. A general rule is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water. Cooking the fettuccine until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the brand, is essential to prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.

If you want to save time for future meals, consider making a double batch of the creamy sauce and refrigerating or freezing half for later use. Reheated sauce can be quickly adjusted with a bit more cream or a splash of broth when needed. This method not only simplifies weeknight dinners but also allows you to customize the dish with different proteins or vegetables when you revisit it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, sliced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and cook until they are browned, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Add the chopped thyme and season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and additional thyme if desired.

Enjoy your meal and share it with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers. This will contribute a wonderful depth to your dish.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated serving experience, consider plating the Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or additional thyme to enhance the visual appeal. Serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing balance.

You could also pair your pasta with garlic bread for an indulgent meal. The crispy bread complements the creamy sauce, making every bite a comforting experience. Adding a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay, can further enhance the flavors while offering a sophisticated touch to your dinner table.

Variations to Try

If you're in the mood for a variation, try adding spinach or kale into the mix. Sautéing it with the mushrooms adds an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color. Alternatively, mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers introduces an unexpected but delightful tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce.

For a bit of heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce. This will not only warm up the dish but also add depth to the overall flavor profile, appealing to those who enjoy a spicy kick in their comfort food.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three days. To maintain the sauce's creamy texture during reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a few tablespoons of broth or cream as needed to help re-emulsify it.

If you want to freeze the dish, we recommend separating the chicken and pasta from the sauce, as cream-based sauces don’t freeze well. Store each component in separate containers, and before serving, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat everything separately for a fresh taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! This sauce works well with any pasta shape, so feel free to use what you have on hand.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, but the sauce may be less creamy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken and store them separately. Just combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.