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This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta comes together in ONE POT with seared chicken, garlic, mushrooms, parmesan, and a splash of white wine—all using pantry staples and HALF the fat of regular creamy pastas. Comfort food made lighter (and better)!
What You’ll Need to Make It Happen
- Chicken thigh fillets (boneless, skinless): Provide tender, flavorful protein that remains juicy during cooking.
- Dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the creamy sauce.
- Yellow onion (medium, chopped): Introduces a sweet and savory base flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic (minced): Imparts a pungent, aromatic depth that enhances the savory elements.
- Dry white wine (or chicken stock/broth): Deglazes the pan, adding acidity and complexity to the sauce.
- Brown mushrooms (sliced): Contribute an earthy, umami flavor and meaty texture.
- Chicken broth or stock: Forms the liquid base of the sauce, infusing it with savory depth.
- Evaporated milk: Provides creaminess with less fat than heavy cream, creating a lighter sauce.
- Uncooked penne pasta: Cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavors and releasing starch to thicken the sauce.
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Easy Steps for the Perfect Pasta
- Step 1:
- Season chicken thighs with dried basil, salt and pepper. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear on both sides until golden brown, cooked through and no longer pink. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- Add the remaining oil to the pot. Fry the onion and garlic until the onion becomes transparent, stirring occasionally (about 2 minutes). Pour in the white wine and allow to simmer for 5 minutes, or until beginning to reduce down.
- Step 3:
- Add the mushrooms and cook for a further 3 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Then, add the broth, milks (or cream if using), salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the pasta and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 15 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts through the sauce. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Slice the chicken into strips and stir through the pasta.
- Step 5:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired
- Step 6:
- Enjoy! It’s the perfect comfort dish for any night of the week, full of rich, satisfying flavor.
Delicious Pairings For Your Pasta Night
A decent pasta should always have a side of Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread and a side of Easy Tomato Salad for some crispy freshness.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, though thighs stay juicier. If using breast, don’t overcook to avoid dryness.
- → What can I use instead of white wine?
Use chicken broth or stock for a non-alcoholic option. It still adds great depth to the sauce.
- → Why cook pasta in the sauce?
It absorbs more flavor and releases starch, helping thicken the creamy sauce naturally.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can reheat leftovers with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- → What kind of mushrooms work best?
Brown mushrooms (cremini or baby bella) offer the best earthy, meaty flavor in this dish.
- → Can I use cream instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, heavy cream can be used for a richer sauce, though the dish will be higher in fat.