Creamy Garlic Chicken Mushroom Pasta

• total time: 21 minutes

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized strips

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced

1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Mushrooms

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their juices and turn golden brown.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to slightly reduce.

Make the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until it starts to thicken.

Add the Cheese

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the pasta and mix until evenly covered with the creamy mixture.

Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm for a cozy, satisfying meal. | Stir of Comfort