Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle (Easy Recipe)

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An Irresistible Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle You’ll Make on Repeat

Imagine this: wide, silky pappardelle noodles, perfectly cooked al dente, luxuriating in a rich, creamy sauce. Each strand is coated with savory bites of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, crowned with a dollop of luscious, fresh burrata that melts into an unparalleled symphony of flavor. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle feels gourmet and restaurant-worthy, yet it’s surprisingly simple to master in your own kitchen. Forget complicated techniques; this guide will walk you through everything from selecting the finest ingredients to expert tips for achieving perfect results every single time. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

Why This Recipe Works (And Why You’ll Love It!)

This isn’t just another chicken and mushroom pasta recipe; it’s a culinary triumph that will earn a permanent spot in your rotation. Here’s why you’ll adore making this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle:

Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Achieve a decadent, five-star meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian trattoria, all created right in your own kitchen. It’s truly a restaurant-style pasta at home.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for a date night dinner recipe or a sophisticated dinner party, but with an approachable ease that makes it a special weeknight chicken pasta treat.
Rich & Satisfying: This dish is a true comfort food pasta dish. It’s hearty, warming, and incredibly flavorful, making it the ultimate satisfying meal.
Customizable: We’ll share easy ways to swap ingredients, from different mushrooms to other proteins, allowing you to make this dish uniquely your own.
Simple, Yet Impressive: The steps are straightforward, making it one of those delightful easy pappardelle recipes. Yet, the final presentation, especially with the fresh burrata, is undeniably a showstopper.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle begins with understanding the role each ingredient plays. Quality matters here!

For the Pasta Base:

Pappardelle: These wide, flat, ribbon-like noodles are a dream for this dish. Their expansive surface area is perfect for catching and holding every drop of the rich, creamy sauce. If pappardelle isn’t available, alternatives like tagliatelle, fettuccine, or even a sturdy short pasta like rigatoni can work wonders. This is a fantastic pappardelle noodles recipe that truly highlights the pasta.
Chicken Breast: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean protein and quick cooking time. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy incorporation. For a richer flavor, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead – they stay incredibly tender. This is a standout among chicken breast pasta recipes.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms (baby bellas) are ideal for their deep, earthy flavor and firm texture. However, feel free to experiment with wild mushrooms, shiitake, or even simple button mushrooms for a delicious mushroom cream sauce for pasta.

For the Luscious Cream Sauce:

Fats & Aromatics: A combination of olive oil and butter provides the perfect fat base for sautéing. Minced garlic and finely diced shallots are essential for building the foundational flavor layer of this exquisite garlic mushroom cream sauce.
Deglazing Liquid: Dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is crucial for deglazing the pan. It lifts all those flavorful browned bits, adding depth and complexity to your pasta with white wine sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, use chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice.
The Creamy Elements: Heavy cream is non-negotiable for that luxurious, velvety texture, forming the heart of our creamy pasta sauce with chicken. Chicken broth adds savory depth and helps achieve the perfect consistency without being overly heavy.
Cheese: Finely grated Parmesan cheese is whisked into the sauce for its salty, umami notes and smooth melting quality. Always use a block of real Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself for the best melt and flavor; pre-grated cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can hinder silkiness.
Herbs & Seasoning: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic, slightly peppery note that complements the mushrooms and chicken beautifully. Simple salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance all the flavors.

The Grand Finale:

Burrata: This exquisite fresh Italian cheese is the secret weapon for an unbelievably luxurious finish. Burrata is essentially a fresh mozzarella shell filled with a soft, creamy interior of stracciatella (shreds of mozzarella and cream). When torn and placed atop the hot pasta, it melts into an unparalleled level of creaminess, transforming your dish into truly decadent pappardelle with burrata.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools makes preparing this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle a breeze:

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking the chicken, mushrooms, and building the sauce.
Large Pot: For cooking the pappardelle noodles.
Colander: To drain your pasta, remembering to reserve some pasta water.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For all your chopping and prepping needs.
Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Whisk: For ensuring a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready to create a truly memorable meal. Follow these steps for a perfect Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients (Mise en Place)

Before you even turn on the stove, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This « mise en place » makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Dice your shallots, mince the garlic, slice your mushrooms uniformly, and cube the chicken breast into even, bite-sized pieces. Have your chicken broth, heavy cream, wine, and cheese measured and within reach.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil and butter in your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. This browning adds incredible flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside; this prevents it from overcooking and becoming tough.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

In the same skillet (add a little more oil if needed), add your sliced mushrooms. Cook them undisturbed for a few minutes until they start to brown, then stir occasionally until they release their moisture and develop a beautiful caramelization. This step is crucial for flavor. Next, add the diced shallots and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 4: Build the Creamy White Wine Sauce

Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute until the alcohol has cooked off. Then, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and fresh thyme. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it reduce and thicken slightly for about 5-7 minutes. Finish by whisking in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and beautifully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Cook the Pappardelle al Dente

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to package directions until just al dente – still firm to the bite. CRITICAL TIP: Before draining, reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water. This « liquid gold » is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 6: Combine, Serve, and Garnish

Add the cooked chicken and the drained pappardelle directly to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together vigorously using tongs, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors. If the sauce seems too thick, add splashes of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired luxurious consistency that beautifully clings to the noodles. Serve immediately in warm bowls, topped with torn pieces of fresh burrata, a generous grind of black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley.

Chef’s Tips for a Flawless Pasta Dish

Master these techniques to elevate your Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken and mushrooms, give them space. If your skillet is too full, they will steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful outcome. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust.
The Magic of Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your secret ingredient. It contains emulsifiers that help bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky, cohesive coating that clings perfectly. Always reserve some!
Sauce Consistency: The perfect sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If your sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer to reduce. If it’s too thick, gradually add small splashes of the reserved pasta water, chicken broth, or a touch more cream until it’s just right.
Use Fresh Herbs and High-Quality Cheese: The difference that fresh thyme and real Parmigiano-Reggiano make to the overall flavor profile is monumental. Avoid dried herbs and pre-shredded cheese for the best results in this rich and savory pasta.
Serving Immediately: Creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh, straight from the pan. The longer they sit, the more the sauce can tighten up, and the pasta can lose its ideal texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking!

Add Some Greens: For extra nutrition and color, stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or baby kale at the very end. The residual heat will wilt them perfectly.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle kick that complements the richness.
Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for savory Italian sausage (removed from its casing and crumbled), quick-cooking shrimp, or even use leftover shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious creamy mushroom pappardelle. You can even add a variety of roasted vegetables.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pappardelle, fettuccine, or other long pasta for an equally satisfying dish.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Pasta

Enhance your Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle experience with these thoughtful pairings:

Bread: A crusty baguette, a rustic ciabatta, or homemade garlic bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce.
Salad: A simple green salad with a bright, acidic vinaigrette (like a lemon-herb dressing) provides a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the pasta.
Wine: Continue with a crisp white wine similar to what you used in the sauce, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or an unoaked Chardonnay. A light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir can also be a delightful choice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

While best served fresh, leftovers of this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle are certainly a treat.

Storing: Transfer any leftover pasta to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to note that the fresh burrata is best added just before serving, so if you anticipate leftovers, consider adding burrata only to the portions you plan to eat immediately.
Reheating: Cream-based sauces can thicken significantly when cold. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and bring it back to its luscious consistency. Stir frequently until heated through. Microwaving is an option, but often yields less desirable texture.
Freezing: We generally advise against freezing cream-based pasta sauces. The dairy can separate and become grainy or watery upon thawing and reheating, significantly affecting the texture and enjoyment of this delicious dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is pappardelle pasta?

Pappardelle is a type of wide, flat egg noodle, originating from Tuscany, Italy. Its name comes from the Italian word « pappare, » meaning « to gobble up, » which perfectly describes how easily these broad ribbons pick up and hold rich sauces, making them ideal for a hearty dish like homemade chicken pasta or any robust sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely! While pappardelle is fantastic, you can substitute it with other wide, flat noodles like tagliatelle or fettuccine. Sturdy short pastas such as rigatoni or penne, which have ridges or hollows to trap the sauce, also work well for this creamy pasta sauce with chicken.

My sauce is too thin/thick. How can I fix it?

If your sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it gently over low heat for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. If your sauce is too thick, gradually whisk in small amounts of reserved pasta water, chicken broth, or a splash of heavy cream until it loosens up and coats the pasta beautifully.

Can I make this dish without wine?

Yes, you can easily make this dish without wine. Simply substitute the dry white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. For a touch of acidity that mimics the wine, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or white wine vinegar along with the broth.

What are the best mushrooms for this recipe?

For the best depth of flavor, we highly recommend cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) due to their earthy taste and firm texture, making this one of the best cremini mushroom recipes. Other excellent choices include shiitake for their umami richness, oyster mushrooms, or even a mixed wild mushroom blend for a more complex profile.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle is truly at its peak when served fresh, right after combining the pasta and sauce. However, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen, then toss with freshly cooked pappardelle just before serving.

The Ultimate Comfort Pasta

This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pappardelle is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor simple, luxurious flavors right in your own home. With wide, tender noodles, a rich mushroom cream sauce for pasta, perfectly cooked chicken, and the indulgent touch of burrata, it embodies everything you crave in a comfort food pasta dish. It’s impressive enough for a special occasion but straightforward enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to fall in love with this ultimate homemade chicken pasta. Give it a try, and let us know what you think in the comments below!

[RECIPE CARD GOES HERE]

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Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pappardelle with Burrata