If you are in search of a comforting and luxurious pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish combines tender strips of chicken with earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of spaghetti. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner but elegant enough to impress guests. With simple ingredients coming together in harmonious flavors and textures, this recipe delivers pure satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each component plays an essential role in crafting the final flavor and texture. From the hearty chicken to the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce, every ingredient contributes to making this dish special and irresistibly tasty.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The pasta backbone of the dish, providing a perfect vessel for the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips: The protein star, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a silky texture and depth to the mushroom sauté.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Adds earthiness and meaty texture to complement the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a subtle spicy note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes a gentle herbaceous hint that brightens the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Builds the savory base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes this recipe stand out.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty richness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — tender but still a bit firm to the bite. This ensures that once tossed in the creamy sauce, it won’t become mushy and will hold up perfectly, providing the ideal texture to carry all those luscious flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the spaghetti cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips generously with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Getting a nice golden sear is key here as it locks in flavor and juiciness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside so you can build the sauce in the same skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until they have softened and released their natural juices, roughly 5 minutes. This step deepens their earthy flavor and ensures they blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce later on.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Thyme
Next, add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the mushrooms. Stir them together and cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant without burning. This layer of aromatics is crucial for the sauce’s depth and warmth.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. Then lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens up just enough to coat the back of a spoon — silky and rich without being overly heavy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken and drained spaghetti back to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the spaghetti is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce and the chicken and mushrooms are evenly distributed. This final step brings all the ingredients together, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm and creamy, ready to delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to brighten this dish, but you can also try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and add subtle layers of flavor that make the meal feel complete.
Side Dishes
This recipe is quite rich, so pairing it with light, crisp side dishes like a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or roasted cherry tomatoes works wonderfully. The fresh and acidic sides balance out the creamy sauce beautifully and keep the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more casual dinner, serve the spaghetti family-style in a large, rustic bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. If you’re aiming for elegance, twirl generous portions onto warmed plates and garnish with a sprig of parsley and a Parmesan crisp. It looks stunning and adds a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce thickens when chilled, so it’s helpful to loosen it up with a splash of milk or cream when reheating to retain that perfect texture.
Freezing
While this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Freeze in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid breaking the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to bring back creaminess. Adding a little bit of chicken broth or cream during reheating will help loosen the sauce and keep the dish silky smooth rather than dry or clumpy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this dish?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully here, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. The creamy sauce will cling beautifully to most shapes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply use gluten-free spaghetti or your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you don’t have to compromise on flavor or creaminess.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent choice if you want a juicier, more flavorful protein. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the butter slightly. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious and creamy.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth, milk, or cream until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps the sauce smooth and perfect for coating your spaghetti.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients with incredible flavor to make a meal you’ll want to revisit again and again. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, and I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this creamy, comforting pasta delight!
Print
Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Dream Spaghetti is a luscious, comforting dish featuring tender chicken strips sautéed with mushrooms and garlic in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, perfectly tossed with al dente spaghetti. Ready in just 35 minutes, it offers a savory, indulgent meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Chicken & Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow cooking for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
- Make cream sauce: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine all: Return the cooked chicken and spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything well to coat evenly with the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chicken and mushroom spaghetti hot, garnished generously with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Ensure not to overcook the spaghetti; it should remain al dente for the best texture.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick if desired.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
