Garlic-Parmesan Chicken and Mushroom Spaghetti in Cream Sauce -

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti in Cream Sauce is a delightful meal that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, creamy sauces, and tender chicken. This dish is not only indulgent but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Garlic-Parmesan Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti in Cream Sauce is a foolproof recipe that combines creamy sauce with al dente spaghetti, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms. The dish offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from the cheesy richness of Parmesan to the garlic’s aromatic punch. It comes together quickly, making it a practical option for a weeknight dinner. Additionally, the creamy sauce can serve as a versatile base for other add-ins, allowing you to customize the recipe according to your taste.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

200 g spaghetti
Salt for pasta water
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
200 g mushrooms, sliced
1 cup cream
1 cup chicken stock
100 g grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti – Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken – In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and sauté them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms – In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, around 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce – Pour in the cream and chicken stock into the skillet with the sautéed garlic and mushrooms. Stir well to combine the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything – Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Finally, add the cooked spaghetti, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the Garlic-Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken stock or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve – Serve the Garlic-Parmesan Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this creamy indulgence paired with a light salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add red chili flakes along with the garlic.
Feel free to swap out spaghetti for fettuccine or any pasta shape you enjoy.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the cream or use a plant-based cream alternative.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat on low heat on the stove with a splash of chicken stock for moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine or penne are great alternatives to spaghetti and will work well with this recipe.

2. What can I substitute for chicken breast?

You can easily use chicken thighs instead, which will add more moisture and flavor to the dish.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of mushrooms or add more veggies such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.

4. How can I make the sauce gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken stock is also gluten-free.

5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While cooking everything fresh is recommended for the best taste, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat before adding the pasta and chicken.

Conclusion

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken & Mushroom Spaghetti in Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Combining tender chicken with earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce over perfectly cooked spaghetti makes it a family favorite. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering, this recipe will surely make everyone at your table feel pampered. Try it tonight, and savor every bite!