Penne with chicken breast, mushrooms, and cream

Penne with chicken breast, mushrooms, and cream - A delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Who doesn’t love a serving of creamy pasta that entices you with its rich flavors? This penne recipe with chicken breast, mushrooms, and cream is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that will impress any guest. With just a few simple ingredients, you will create a main dish that combines the soft texture of the penne with the flavors of chicken and mushrooms.

A bit of history

Pasta has been invented throughout history, evolving from different cultures that contributed to its diversity. Over time, pasta recipes have become a symbol of culinary comfort, often associated with family meals and festive moments. This simple recipe is a modern variant that combines popular ingredients to create a delicious and comforting dish.

Ingredients needed

- 150g penne (or any preferred type of pasta)
- 150g chicken breast
- 150g champignon mushrooms
- 150g cream (preferably with a higher fat content for a creamy texture)
- 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water with a pinch of salt to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the chicken: In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into thin pieces, about 2 cm. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until nicely browned and fully cooked.

3. Add the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms, rinse them under cold water, and slice them. Once the chicken is cooked, add the mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to cook everything over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms become tender.

4. Combine the ingredients: When the mushrooms are almost done, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix well so the pasta absorbs the flavors from the chicken and mushrooms. Let it cook together for about a minute.

5. Add the cream: Reduce the heat to low and pour the cream over the pasta. Stir well to combine everything. It’s important to adjust the consistency: if the cream is too thin, you can add 3-4 tablespoons of grated Parmesan to give it a creamier texture. If it’s too thick, add a little pasta water.

6. Season: Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to combine.

7. Serve: Plate the dish into deep plates and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. It’s recommended to serve the penne immediately, as the cream will thicken as it cools.

Helpful tips

- If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.
- This recipe can easily be adapted; you can replace the chicken breast with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- It’s an excellent recipe for using up leftover meat or vegetables, so feel free to add whatever you have in the fridge.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This penne recipe with chicken breast, mushrooms, and cream offers a balance between proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats:

- Estimated calories per serving: approximately 600-700 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, and cream, when consumed in moderation, adds extra calcium.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, offering a slightly different texture and more fiber.

2. What can I use instead of cream?
You can try Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

3. Can vegetables be added?
Absolutely! Broccoli, zucchini, or spinach are delicious additions that bring color and extra nutrients.

Recommended recipes and drinks

This penne recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a lemon fresh will perfectly complement your meal.

In conclusion, penne with chicken breast, mushrooms, and cream is not just a simple recipe but also a culinary experience full of flavor and comfort. With every bite, you will feel how the flavors harmoniously blend, offering you a delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!