Creamy Chicken Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Creamy Chicken Pasta. I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights when everyone was running around, and I needed something quick yet satisfying. As the rich aroma of sautéed mushrooms and garlic filled the kitchen, I could see the kids’ eyes light up in anticipation. This dish combines tender pieces of rotisserie chicken with perfectly cooked fettuccine, enveloped in a creamy sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Each bite transports you to a cozy dinner setting, where laughter and flavors mingle, making it the perfect choice for a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal. I often find myself making this dish when I want to impress without the stress. It’s a recipe that always delivers on taste and comfort.

Recipe Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta

The ingredients for this Creamy Chicken Pasta come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component has a role, from the rich creaminess of the Boursin cheese to the earthiness of mushrooms. You’ll find that these ingredients complement each other beautifully, making every bite satisfying and delicious.

• 6 ounces of fettuccine (not the whole box) – A classic pasta choice that holds the creamy sauce well.
• 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (divided) – Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 3 cups of sliced mushrooms (9.5 ounces, crimini or baby bella) – Brings an earthy taste and great texture.
• 1 tablespoon of finely minced garlic (3 cloves) – Adds a robust flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – Gives the dish a homey, herby taste.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
• 1 (5.2-ounce) package of Boursin garlic and herb cheese – This creamy cheese is the star ingredient, adding depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional Parmesan for serving) – Adds a nutty, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups of coarsely chopped rotisserie chicken – A convenient and flavorful protein source.
• 2 cups of packed baby spinach (coarsely chopped, optional) – Adds a burst of color and nutrition.
• Fresh parsley (for serving, optional) – A lovely touch that brightens the dish.

Cooking Instructions for Creamy Chicken Pasta

Cooking Creamy Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps to make the most out of your ingredients, and don’t forget to taste as you go—it’s all part of the fun!

1. Start by thinly slicing the mushrooms to about half an inch thick. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors. Set them aside for later.
2. Coarsely chop the rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that every forkful of pasta will be packed with flavor.
3. If you’re adding baby spinach, coarsely chop it as well. You can also leave it whole if you prefer. It’s a versatile ingredient and will wilt down nicely in the heat of the pasta.
4. Heads-up: Make sure to save some of the pasta water! Don’t drain it all. You’ll need this starchy water later to help create a nice creamy sauce.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, generously salt the water. A good ratio is about one teaspoon of salt for every four cups of water. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
6. Cook the fettuccine according to the package directions, but aim for one minute less than directed. This will help achieve the perfect texture. Before draining, remove one cup of pasta water and set it aside.
7. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget about that saved pasta water!
8. In a large skillet or pot (I prefer a deep cast-iron skillet), heat it over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, you’re ready to add the next ingredient.
9. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn a lovely golden brown and all their moisture evaporates, which should take around five minutes.
10. Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste, about a quarter teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper works well. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for that aromatic boost.
11. Once the mushrooms are golden and fragrant, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Stir everything together for an additional one to two minutes until everything is beautifully golden and aromatic.
12. Now, let’s build our sauce! Lower the heat and add the Boursin cheese, chopped chicken, and the hot, drained pasta into the skillet. Using tongs, toss everything together while gradually adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water. I usually start with about half a cup and add more as needed.
13. Incorporate the Parmesan cheese into the mixture too, adjusting with more pasta water if necessary, until the sauce is creamy and clings to the pasta perfectly. This is where the magic happens!
14. Add the spinach to the skillet and gently toss everything to wilt the greens. This process shouldn’t take long. Once wilted, remove the skillet from heat.
15. Finally, taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed until the flavors sing. Serve immediately, garnishing with more Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Substitutions and Tips

Cooking is all about creativity! Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to keep in mind while preparing your Creamy Chicken Pasta.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently.
• Freezing: Freezing isn’t recommended as the sauce can separate upon thawing.
• Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.

Serving This Creamy Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving Creamy Chicken Pasta, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish:

• Family gatherings: This pasta is perfect for family dinners. Pair it with a fresh garden salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Celebratory occasions: It’s also great for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, where you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
• Lunch or dinner: Enjoy this dish as a hearty lunch or dinner option; it’s filling and satisfies everyone’s cravings.
• Seasonal pairings: In the spring and summer, serve with a side of roasted asparagus or a tomato salad for a fresh touch.
• Storing leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove.
• Freezing notes: If you must freeze it, do so without the sauce, as it tends to separate. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Pasta lies in its rich flavors and comforting texture, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try preparing this delightful meal, whether for a busy weeknight or a special gathering. It’s a dish that will surely impress and satisfy, bringing warmth and joy to your table.

Creamy Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. An easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 570

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 ounces fettuccine not the whole box
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups sliced mushrooms 9.5 ounces, crimini or baby bella
• 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic 3 cloves
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 package Boursin garlic and herb cheese 5.2-ounce
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus additional Parmesan for serving
• 2 cups coarsely chopped rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups packed baby spinach coarsely chopped, optional
• Fresh parsley for serving, optional

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. Step 1: Thinly slice the mushrooms to about half an inch thick. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors. Set them aside for later.
2. Step 2: Coarsely chop the rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that every forkful of pasta will be packed with flavor.
3. Step 3: If you’re adding baby spinach, coarsely chop it as well. You can also leave it whole if you prefer. It’s a versatile ingredient and will wilt down nicely in the heat of the pasta.
4. Step 4: Heads-up: Make sure to save some of the pasta water! Don’t drain it all. You'll need this starchy water later to help create a nice creamy sauce.
5. Step 5: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, generously salt the water. A good ratio is about one teaspoon of salt for every four cups of water. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
6. Step 6: Cook the fettuccine according to the package directions, but aim for one minute less than directed. This will help achieve the perfect texture. Before draining, remove one cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
7. Step 7: Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget about that saved pasta water!
8. Step 8: In a large skillet or pot (I prefer a deep cast-iron skillet), heat it over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, you’re ready to add the next ingredient.
9. Step 9: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn a lovely golden brown and all their moisture evaporates, which should take around five minutes.
10. Step 10: Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste, about a quarter teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper works well. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for that aromatic boost.
11. Step 11: Once the mushrooms are golden and fragrant, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Stir everything together for an additional one to two minutes until everything is beautifully golden and aromatic.
12. Step 12: Now, let’s build our sauce! Lower the heat and add the Boursin cheese, chopped chicken, and the hot, drained pasta into the skillet. Using tongs, toss everything together while gradually adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water. I usually start with about half a cup and add more as needed.
13. Step 13: Incorporate the Parmesan cheese into the mixture too, adjusting with more pasta water if necessary, until the sauce is creamy and clings to the pasta perfectly. This is where the magic happens!
14. Step 14: Add the spinach to the skillet and gently toss everything to wilt the greens. This process shouldn't take long. Once wilted, remove the skillet from heat.
15. Step 15: Finally, taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed until the flavors sing. Serve immediately, garnishing with more Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Tip 1: Boursin is available at most grocery stores. It’s typically found in the deli section or with other cheeses.
• Tip 2: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Tip 3: Freezing isn’t recommended since the sauce can separate.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.