Introduction
When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a hearty pasta meal. This recipe features tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant peppers, all wrapped in a creamy sauce that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it also comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. The combination of juicy chicken and sautéed vegetables creates a delightful medley that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta.
Get ready to elevate your dinner routine with this comforting and delicious pasta recipe. It’s a dish that promises to drive you crazy—in the best way possible!
Ingredients This Pasta Recipe Will Drive You Crazy! Juicy Chicken with Mushrooms and Peppers!
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions & Preparation
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the broth to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!
FAQs This Pasta Recipe Will Drive You Crazy! Juicy Chicken with Mushrooms and Peppers!
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or rotini.
How can I make this dish more colorful?
Add a variety of bell peppers or incorporate vegetables like zucchini and spinach for added color and nutrition.
What if my chicken is dry?
To prevent dry chicken, ensure not to overcook it in the skillet and consider marinating it for an hour before cooking.
Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Shrimp or sausage would work well in this dish as alternative protein options.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help restore creaminess.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or carrots for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This pasta recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. The combination of juicy chicken, savory mushrooms, and colorful peppers creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting.
Once you try this easy, flavorful recipe, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a delightful and hearty meal that will drive everyone crazy with delight!
Recipe Card
This Pasta Recipe Will Drive You Crazy! Juicy Chicken with Mushrooms and Peppers!
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the broth to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
