Pasta with chicken, mushrooms, and sour cream

Pasta Recipe with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Cream: A Delicious Experience

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a steaming plate of pasta with creamy sauce? This pasta recipe with chicken, mushrooms, and cream promises to be a true feast for the senses. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it is also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests.

About the Recipe:
Pasta with chicken and mushrooms is a traditional recipe, loved by many, that combines the rich flavors of chicken with the fine texture of mushrooms and the creaminess of the cream. This combination has been appreciated over time as it offers comfort and satisfaction in a single dish.

Ingredients:
- 250 g pasta (I recommend taglierini, but you can use other types)
- 400 g cream
- 2 cans of sliced mushrooms (approximately 312 g)
- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 400 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons of palm oil (or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 handfuls of grated Parmesan (for topping)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes, slicing the onion thinly, chopping the carrot into rounds or small cubes, and slicing the bell pepper. Finely chop the dill, and the mushrooms are ready from the can, so no preparation is needed. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready for smoother cooking.

2. Cooking the chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the diced chicken and mix everything well.

3. Adding water: Once the chicken changes color, add a few tablespoons of water (about 100 ml) and stir occasionally, being careful not to let the ingredients fry. It is important for the chicken to simmer in its own juices to retain its juiciness.

4. Cooking the chicken thoroughly: After 10 minutes, when the water has reduced, you can add more water, enough to cover the meat. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

5. Adding mushrooms and bell pepper: When the meat is almost cooked, add the mushrooms and sliced bell pepper. Let them simmer together for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to combine.

6. Adding cream: Finally, add the cream. Mix well to achieve a creamy sauce. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the pasta.

7. Cooking the pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions (about 4 minutes) in salted water. Once ready, drain and quickly rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

8. Mixing: In a large pot, combine the pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well, ensuring that each strand of pasta is coated with sauce.

9. Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Grate Parmesan on top and place the dish in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes until a golden crust forms on top.

10. Serving: Carefully remove from the oven as it will be very hot. Serve the pasta immediately, enjoying the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- You can add extra vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, for added nutrients.
- If you like a stronger flavor, you can add sautéed garlic along with the onion.
- Instead of Parmesan, you can use cheddar or mozzarella cheese, depending on your preferences.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing citrus juice.
- If you want a thinner sauce, you can add a little milk or water.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is a good source of protein from chicken and cream, while mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants. Dill is rich in vitamins and minerals and is also a good digestive aid. Additionally, pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent and healthier option.
2. Can I replace the cream with a vegan product?
Certainly, you can use vegan cream or soy yogurt.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Enjoy this pasta recipe with chicken, mushrooms, and cream and turn every meal into a special occasion. Whether you prepare it for family or friends, your effort will surely be appreciated!