Why the Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Is a Great Chicken Dish
Although there are countless chicken dishes out there, I believe Chicken and Mushroom Pasta stands out for its delightful combination of flavors and textures.
The tender chicken melds beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, creating a savory base that’s hard to resist. When you toss in the fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, it becomes a sensory experience.
Plus, the creamy touch of Parmesan cheese elevates each bite to a new level. It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort food at its finest.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy my cravings.
Ingredients of Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
When it comes to making Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, having the right ingredients is key. Luckily, this recipe calls for some simple, yet flavorful items that you might already have in your kitchen. It’s a delightful mix of chicken, mushrooms, and a few aromatic herbs that come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Trust me, once you have everything ready, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that might just make you a little hungry—like, I’m talking about serious snack attack levels. So, let’s gather everything we need before we plunge into the cooking process.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Chicken and Mushroom Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size strips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup basil leaves, shredded
- 3 tablespoons fresh oregano, snipped
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Now, before you rush off to the store, let’s consider a couple of things. First, the type of mushrooms you use can really change the flavor profile. While I usually go for classic button mushrooms, feel free to experiment with cremini or even shiitake if you’re feeling adventurous.
They bring their own unique taste to the dish, making it even more interesting. And let’s not forget about the chicken. Make sure to get the boneless, skinless kind for easy cooking and a leaner meal. Plus, if you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken can work too—just shred it up and toss it in at the end.
How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of Chicken and Mushroom Pasta. First things first, you’ll want to cook the 8 ounces of penne pasta. Just follow the package directions—it’s usually a simple boil, stir, and drain situation.
Once that’s done, drain the pasta, toss it back into the saucepan, and keep it warm while you work on the rest. It’s like a little pasta sanctuary waiting for its big moment.
Now, let’s talk chicken. You’ve got 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized strips. Season it with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
Heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering (you’ll know it’s ready when it looks like it’s doing a little dance), toss in that seasoned chicken along with 3 minced garlic cloves.
Cook it all together, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the chicken is tender and no longer pink. Once it’s cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, it’ll be back for the grand finale.
Next up, it’s time to make the mushroom mix that will truly elevate your dish. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet (because who wants to wash extra dishes, right?).
Throw in 3 cups of sliced fresh mushrooms and 1 thinly sliced medium onion. Cook those until they’re just tender, stirring occasionally.
Then, carefully pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/4 cup of dry white wine. Bring that to a boil and let it reduce for about 2 minutes. The smells wafting through your kitchen at this point? Pure magic.
Now, it’s time to unite the chicken, the pasta, and the fresh goodies. Toss in the cooked pasta, the chicken, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup of shredded basil leaves, and 3 tablespoons of snipped fresh oregano.
Give everything a gentle toss to make sure each piece is well-coated in that flavorful sauce. Once it’s all mixed, transfer it to a serving dish, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and add a touch more black pepper for good measure.
And there you have it—your Chicken and Mushroom Pasta is ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate with you. Enjoy!
Chicken and Mushroom Pasta Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, there are plenty of easy substitutions and variations to explore.
For a lighter dish, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Instead of penne, any pasta shape works well.
For the mushrooms, feel free to mix in different varieties like shiitake or cremini. If you want a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
Finally, switch up the herbs; thyme or parsley can give a fresh twist!
What to Serve with Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
To complement your Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, I recommend serving a fresh side salad.
A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a revitalizing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta.
You could also consider garlic bread for that perfect buttery touch; it’s great for soaking up any extra sauce.
If you want to elevate the meal further, a glass of crisp white wine pairs beautifully.
Finally, don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan over your salad for a cohesive flavor that ties everything together.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish.
First, don’t skimp on the fresh herbs; they really bring the flavors to life. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking.
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; it makes a huge difference!
Finally, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious creation with a side salad for a complete meal!