Save It This creamy chicken and mushroom pasta is my go to comfort recipe whenever I want a cozy dinner without a mountain of dishes. Tender chicken and earthy mushrooms simmer in one pot with pasta and spinach until everything is coated in a silky cheesy sauce that tastes like something from a restaurant but comes together fast enough for a weeknight.
Every time I make this dish my whole kitchen smells incredible. The mushrooms and garlic remind me of the big family dinners that always made me feel warm and taken care of even on the coldest nights.
Ingredients
- Chicken broth: gives the pasta a deep savory flavor as it cooks choose a low sodium variety for more control over salt
- Uncooked pasta: soaks up the flavors as it cooks in the broth choose sturdy pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold sauce well
- Diced cooked chicken: adds quick protein I love using leftover roast or rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Sliced mushrooms: bring an earthy depth baby bellas or cremini mushrooms offer the best flavor but any fresh mushrooms work
- Fresh spinach: brings color and nutrients add at the end so it stays bright and barely wilted
- Cream cheese: makes the sauce rich and silky look for full fat blocks for extra creamy results
- Garlic powder: enhances flavor without the need for fresh chopping choose a fresh jar for the boldest taste
- Salt and pepper to taste: add as you go and always taste at the end to adjust
Instructions
- Step one:
- Combine the chicken broth uncooked pasta diced chicken sliced mushrooms garlic powder salt and pepper in a large pot. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged so it cooks evenly and absorbs all those good flavors.
- Step two:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium high heat then reduce the heat to a low simmer uncovered. Stir every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. When the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed after about twelve to fifteen minutes you are ready for the creamy step.
- Step three:
- Add the cream cheese straight to the hot pasta mixture. Stir patiently until it melts completely and turns the cooking liquid into a luscious sauce. It may look thin at first but keep stirring as it thickens while it rests.
- Step four:
- Scatter the fresh spinach over the pasta and stir gently. After one or two minutes the spinach will soften and deepen in color blending right into the creamy sauce.
- Step five:
- Spoon the pasta into bowls while steaming hot. If you love extra flavor sprinkle with grated Parmesan or fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or basil.
Save It The way the cream cheese melts into the pasta always makes me smile. I have such fond memories of my kids crowding around the table on chilly evenings just waiting for those big steaming bowls.
Storage tips
This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to three days tightly covered. Reheat gently with a splash of extra broth or milk to restore the creamy texture. It is freezer friendly just know the pasta might soften a little after thawing so slightly undercook if freezing.
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap cooked turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for the chicken use kale instead of spinach or try a mix of mushrooms for deeper flavor. For a dairy free version choose a coconut based cream cheese and swap in your favorite vegan cheese for that cheesy finish.
Serving suggestions
Pair this pasta with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a cozy dinner serve alongside a glass of chilled white wine. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add lovely crunch on top.
Cultural and historical context
Creamy pasta dishes have deep roots in Italian American kitchens but this one pot version reflects modern weeknight cooking trends. Combining everything in one pot not only saves time but layers flavors in a way that feels both rustic and elevated. It is a spin on classic comfort that feels fresh yet nostalgic.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add fresh baby peas or sweet corn in spring. Use zucchini ribbons or roasted squash in fall. Try sautéed cherry tomatoes for a bright summery version.
Success Stories
My friend tried this recipe with gluten free pasta and dairy free cheese and said it turned out perfectly creamy. Another reader topped theirs with crispy bacon bits for a little smokiness and that batch disappeared even faster than usual.
Freezer meal conversion
To convert this into a freezer meal cook the pasta just to barely al dente and cool quickly. Store in airtight containers. Defrost overnight in the fridge and warm up over low heat with an extra splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce.
Save It This easy one pot pasta is pure cozy comfort any night of the week. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option. Simply dice and add it in with the other ingredients for convenience.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or fusilli are great choices as they hold sauce well, but other short pasta shapes can also be used successfully.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and skip Parmesan or use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are suitable for your dietary needs.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Feel free to stir in peas, bell peppers, or zucchini with the mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.