If you are craving a dish that’s comforting, rich, and packed with flavor, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta. Every bite is a celebration of textures and tastes—from the delicate garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the luscious touch of heavy cream, this recipe truly elevates simple ingredients into a foodie’s dream. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish has all the warmth and satisfaction you want from a homemade meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan filled with many slices of cooked mushrooms, showing different shades of brown and beige. The mushrooms are thinly sliced and mixed with small green herb pieces, all sitting in a light brown sauce. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, and soft steam rises from the warm mushrooms, showing they are fresh and hot. The pan has silver handles on each side, and the mushrooms cover the pan evenly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor, from the savory chicken and aromatic herbs to the creamy sauce that brings everything together. Having these essentials on hand means you’re just steps away from a memorable dinner.

8 oz. dried pasta: Rigatoni works wonderfully, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love.
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast: Tender and lean, the perfect protein to soak up the sauce.
1.5 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create a velvety coating for the chicken strips.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, pungent depth without overpowering.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the mushrooms.
1.5 teaspoons salt (separated): Enhances all the flavors perfectly when used at different stages.
⅛ teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the richness.
3 tablespoons olive oil (separated): For browning the chicken and sautéing the veggies beautifully.
⅓ cup dry white wine: Deglazes the pan, unlocking those irresistible caramelized bits.
½ medium white onion (minced): Gives a sweet, aromatic base to the sauce.
12 oz. mushrooms: Shiitake or your favorite kind bring meaty texture and umami richness.
5 cloves garlic (peeled and minced): Fresh garlic pungency that brightens the dish.
⅓ cup julienned sun dried tomatoes in oil (drained): Adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast.
½ cup starchy pasta water: The secret to a silky sauce that clings to pasta.
1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth): Layers additional savory depth into the sauce.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the color and subtle tomato flavor.
⅓ cup heavy cream: The soul of the creamy texture you’re after.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): A savory finish that melts into the pasta.
1 sprig fresh thyme leaves (for garnish): A fresh herbaceous touch to brighten the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water before draining. This flavorful water is your secret weapon for that silky sauce that wraps around every noodle.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Just Right

Lay the chicken breasts on a flat surface, cover with plastic wrap, and gently pound them to an even thickness—about an inch thick. Cutting the chicken evenly helps it cook uniformly so every bite is tender and juicy. Slice into half-inch strips and set aside while you prepare the dry rub that will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 3: Create the Flavorful Dry Rub

In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, dried thyme, half a teaspoon of salt, and ground pepper. Toss the chicken strips in this dry rub until they’re generously coated. This mixture not only seasons the chicken but helps create a delicious golden crust when cooked.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken Beautifully

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and fragrant, add the chicken strips in a single layer—cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165ºF. Set the cooked chicken aside and get ready to build your sauce in the same pan.

Step 5: Make the Sauce Base with Wine and Onions

Turn the heat to medium and pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Add the minced onion and a quarter teaspoon of salt, sautéing for about 2 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, awakening the aromas that will define the sauce.

Step 6: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, then toss in the mushrooms, stirring them with the onions. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for approximately 3 minutes until the mushrooms start to turn golden. Stir in the minced garlic and a quarter cup of beef broth, letting everything cook together for 2 to 3 more minutes to develop a wonderful richness.

Step 7: Add Sun Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Mix in the julienned sun dried tomatoes and the remaining salt, tossing everything together. The sun dried tomatoes introduce a pop of tangy sweetness, balancing the deep umami flavors of the mushrooms and broth. Your sauce is already smelling fantastic!

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

Pour in the reserved starchy pasta water and the remaining beef broth, then whisk in the tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken slightly. This step helps intensify the flavors and creates the perfect base for your creamy sauce.

Step 9: Finish with Cream and Combine

Remove the pan from the heat and gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Return to medium heat and gently warm the sauce, then add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are luxuriously coated in that luscious sauce. If you want it saucier, don’t hesitate to add extra pasta water by the tablespoon.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. This final flourish adds nuttiness and a fresh herbal note that makes the dish irresistible, ready to be enjoyed by all.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe

A white speckled bowl contains a meal divided into three sections: on the left, several pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken seasoned with herbs; in the middle, a creamy mushroom sauce with visible mushroom slices and small bits of sun-dried tomatoes creating a rich brown texture; on the right, a pile of smooth, pale yellow rigatoni pasta arranged neatly with a silver fork resting at the edge. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, accompanied by a small white plate with two buttered bread slices in the top left corner, a small brown bowl filled with red pepper flakes above the plate, and a white bowl with grated cheese at the bottom. A dark gray cloth napkin is placed to the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sprigs of thyme are the perfect finishing touches for this dish. The cheese delivers a salty, nutty contrast while the thyme leaves offer a subtle fragrance, bringing brightness to the creamy richness. You can also add a pinch of cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes if you like a little kick.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple and let the pasta shine by pairing it with a crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans. A crusty loaf of bread is another fantastic companion to soak up any extra sauce, making the meal feel extra comforting and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe in rustic shallow bowls and garnish individually with Parmesan and thyme sprigs. Drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction over the top to elevate the presentation. You could also serve it family-style in a large serving platter sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley for a colorful, inviting touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, making it even tastier the next day. Just make sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing

This pasta is freezer-friendly if you want to save some for a future meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the consistency.

Reheating

For the best results, gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This helps revive the creamy sauce without breaking or separating. Microwaving works too, but do so in short bursts with stirring in between to keep the texture silky.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is a great choice because it holds sauce well, you can switch to penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand. The key is to cook it al dente so it keeps its shape when tossed in the creamy sauce.

What mushrooms work best?

Shiittake mushrooms are wonderfully meaty and flavorful, but cremini, button, or even portobello mushrooms are excellent substitutes. Feel free to mix varieties for added depth. Just remember to slice them evenly so they cook uniformly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy topping. The dish will still be creamy and delicious with these simple swaps.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by leaving out the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Adding extra mushrooms or some sautéed tofu cubes can give you that satisfying protein boost without losing any richness.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce seems too thin, simply continue simmering it gently until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, you can whisk in a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry, but be careful to add slowly and stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s just the right balance of comfort food and elegance, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might find it becoming one of your go-to favorites just like it did for me!