why make this recipe

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for a family dinner or a cozy night in. This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and offers a comforting yet gourmet feel. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress everyone at the table.

how to make Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

12 ounce penne pasta
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (patted dry)
8 ounce cremini mushrooms (sliced)
0.5 cup yellow onion (finely diced)
3 clove garlic (minced)
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
0.75 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
0.75 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
0.5 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten)

Directions:

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for around 2-3 minutes until soft.
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken and slice it into strips.
In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and whisk it together.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce.
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined.

how to serve Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne

Serve the creamy mushroom chicken penne hot. You can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne

To store any leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

tips to make Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne

Ensure the chicken is patted dry before cooking. This helps to get a nice sear and prevents steaming.
Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
If you love garlic, feel free to add more than three cloves for an extra punch of flavor.
For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. For a lighter option, try using grilled shrimp instead of chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, like fusilli or farfalle.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve.

Can I freeze Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne?
While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the freezer for up to a month. Just reheat slowly over low heat.