Name: Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cubed; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh thyme, for seasoning

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Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is my kind of comfort food—rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. I combine tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety cream sauce, then toss it all with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for both weeknights and special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and savory depth. The mushrooms add an umami boost, the Parmesan gives it that irresistible cheesy finish, and the fresh thyme brings in a subtle herbal note that ties everything together. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 chicken breasts, cubed
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme, for seasoning

Directions

I start by seasoning the cubed chicken with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, I heat the olive oil and cook the chicken for 7–8 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. I remove it and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add the garlic and mushrooms. I sauté them for 4–5 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and slightly golden.
I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
I add the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
While the sauce is cooking, I prepare the pasta according to the package directions and drain it.
I add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet and toss everything together until it’s well coated in the creamy sauce.
I finish by seasoning with fresh thyme, more salt, and black pepper to taste, then serve it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken for shrimp or sliced sausage for a different protein.
For a lighter version, I use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
I add a handful of spinach or peas for a pop of color and added nutrition.
If I’m in the mood for a deeper flavor, I sauté the mushrooms with a splash of white wine.
For extra heat, I sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I stir halfway through to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes. I sometimes use rotisserie chicken if I’m short on time—just add it in when combining everything with the sauce.

What type of mushrooms work best?

I usually go with cremini or white mushrooms, but shiitake or a mushroom blend adds great depth if I want something richer.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. I use gluten-free pasta and make sure the broth and cheese I’m using are certified gluten-free.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but I do freeze it occasionally. I just keep in mind that cream-based sauces can separate a bit when thawed, so I reheat slowly and stir well.

What can I serve with this pasta?

I usually serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta is one of those dishes I can always count on to deliver. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make—all in one pan. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight family dinner or treating myself to something cozy and delicious, this recipe never fails to hit the spot.