Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Penne
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 1 tbsp olive oil≈ $0.15
- 1 tbsp butter≈ $0.35
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced≈ $5.75
- 1/2 onion, chopped≈ $0.25
- 2 cloves garlic, minced≈ $0.10
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced≈ $4.85
- 1/2 cup milk≈ $0.65
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese≈ $1.20
- 1/4 cup grated Gouda cheese≈ $0.60
- 1 tsp salt≈ $0.10
- 1/2 tsp black pepper≈ $0.10
- 8 oz Penne pasta≈ $3.95
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water≈ $0.25
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
- 2
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 3
Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- 4
Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- 5
Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms are tender and have released their liquid, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
Return chicken to the skillet. Pour in milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
- 7
Stir in Gruyere and Gouda cheese until melted and a creamy sauce forms.
- 8
Add the cooked penne to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 9
Serve immediately.
About this recipe
Craving a comforting yet elegant meal that comes together in a flash. This delightful creamy chicken and mushroom penne offers rich, savory flavors in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms create a truly satisfying experience for the whole family. Imagine a hearty pasta dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare. With its velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked penne, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience, quickly becoming a go-to for weeknight dinners or when you need a quick, delicious Italian-inspired meal.
The story behind it
This rendition of a creamy chicken pasta finds its roots in the practical ingenuity of Italian-American kitchens, where hearty ingredients were combined to create comforting, substantial meals. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of using readily available items to craft something truly special, reminiscent of a nonna's touch on a classic. It’s a testament to simple ingredients yielding profound flavor.
Chef's tips
- 1Sear the diced chicken breast until golden brown before adding onions to ensure a rich, flavorful base for your sauce.
- 2Do not overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms; cook them in batches if necessary to achieve a beautiful golden caramelization.
- 3Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring continuously, to achieve your desired creamy consistency and help emulsify the cheeses.
- 4Always grate your Gruyere and Gouda fresh for the best melt and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded varieties which can be drier.
- 5Before serving, taste the finished pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance the creamy, savory flavors.
Ways to make it your own
Substitute regular penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a diet-friendly meal.
Omit the chicken and double the mushrooms, or add hearty vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes for a satisfying meatless version.
Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic or a dash of hot sauce to the finished sauce for an extra layer of warmth.
Stir in a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or chives at the very end to brighten the dish with fresh herbal notes.
Frequently asked
Can I use different cheeses for this creamy chicken pasta recipe+
Yes, you can experiment with other good melting cheeses like Parmesan, white cheddar, or fontina, though Gruyere and Gouda offer a unique depth of flavor.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping+
To avoid clumping, ensure the milk is warmed slightly before adding the cheese, and stir the cheese in gradually off the heat, or over very low heat, until smooth.
What is the purpose of reserved pasta water+
Reserved pasta water is starchy and helps to both thin the sauce to the desired consistency and bind it to the pasta, creating a silkier, more emulsified texture.
Can I make this chicken and mushroom penne ahead of time+
While best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for best results.
Why is my chicken tough or dry+
Chicken becomes tough or dry when overcooked, so be sure to sear it quickly until just cooked through and remove it from the pan before building the sauce.